Brazilian midfielder Éderson has committed his long-term future to Atalanta by signing a contract extension that will run until June 2031. The announcement follows the dramatic collapse of a €45m transfer to Manchester United, which was abandoned after the Premier League side flagged concerns during medical examinations.
The 27-year-old had appeared set for a move to Old Trafford in a deal worth €45m including add-ons. The agreement had been concluded in principle, with completion scheduled for after Brazil’s World Cup campaign. However, Manchester United withdrew from the transfer, citing problems that emerged during the player’s medical tests.
Medical concerns and United’s withdrawal
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the specific issue centred on Éderson’s right knee, which underwent surgery to clean up the meniscus in August 2025. Despite this procedure, the midfielder accumulated 3,169 minutes of playing time across all competitions.
Atalanta director of sport Cristiano Giuntoli described the club as “stunned” by the turnaround. Giuntoli maintains there is nothing physically wrong with the player and promised to secure him to a new contract with improved salary terms—a pledge now fulfilled.
From Salernitana to security
Éderson initially joined the Gewiss Stadium outfit from Salernitana in the summer of 2022. His previous agreement was due to expire at the end of the current season, meaning he could have departed on a free transfer had the Manchester United move collapsed without this replacement deal.
The extension represents a significant reversal for the midfielder, who avoids entering the final months of his contract while securing enhanced wages.
United’s reported alternative
While Éderson prepares to remain in Bergamo, Manchester United are reportedly exploring other options. Sky Sport Italia suggests the club has shifted its focus to Roma midfielder Manu Koné, though no agreement has been confirmed.
The episode highlights how medical assessments can abruptly halt advanced negotiations even when deals appear settled. For Atalanta, retaining a player who contributed significantly last season—despite the fitness concerns that deterred United—provides valuable stability in midfield ahead of the new campaign.