Manchester United may be forced to delay the completion of a transfer for midfielder Ederson, after the Brazilian was a late call-up for Carlo Ancelotti’s side. Ederson replaces Wesley, who suffered an injury.
A deal is all-but agreed between United and Atalanta, with Ederson expected to join in a £35million transfer, with a further £4m available in add-ons. The move was not expected to be confirmed until July, but could now face further delay if the 26-year-old remains at the World Cup.
While the start of the World Cup is just days away, Ederson now has the opportunity to make his mark in North America. While Wesley is a defender, Ancelotti has opted to bolster his midfield options with only five included in his initial selection.
The Italian coach selected Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al Ittihad) and Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo) as his options, with nine defenders and nine attackers initially selected. Ederson can now challenge for a space in the starting lineup.
Detailing the swap, the CBF said in a statement: “The Brazilian Football Confederation reports that the athlete Wesley was re-evaluated this Sunday by the Brazilian National Team’s medical commission and underwent an imaging exam.
“The MRI scan revealed a muscle injury in the adductor muscle of the left thigh.
“The CBF regrets the injury. Wesley is a beloved player within the group and will always be considered part of this team that is seeking its sixth world championship.
“In light of the diagnosis, the CBF (Brazilian Football Confederation) announces the call-up of player Éderson, who will join the delegation this Monday in the United States.”
View 2 ImagesEderson is set to seal a move to Man United(Image: Getty Images)
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Ederson is set to form part of Manchester United’s plans to strengthen their midfield. The Atalanta ace’s compatriot Casemiro departs Old Trafford at the end of his deal and Michael Carrick will hope to see incoming moves for a priority area.
United had hoped Ederson would arrive in time for the start of pre-season, and that is now in jeopardy given his involvement in the World Cup. Manchester United’s first friendly is set for July 18 against Wrexham and the World Cup final is the following day.
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The Red Devils are also interested in Mateus Fernandes, who is set to leave West Ham this summer following their relegation to the Championship. Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the situation.
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