Brazil’s shock exit from the World Cup last night means Manchester United can now finalise their signing of Ederson.

After the squad have finished licking their wounds over their last-16 defeat to Norway, who’ve made the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time, the midfielder will fly to England to meet with the United staff.

How did Ederson fare at the World Cup? 

Ederson had not originally made Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-man selection, but received a late call-up following an injury to full-back Wesley.

The 26-year-old was utilised sparingly at the tournament, featuring only twice in the five matches Brazil played.

He didn’t start a game and played for just nine minutes against Haiti before being called off the bench on Sunday to see out the remaining 11 minutes of their clash with the Norwegians.

Yet, Erling Haaland’s double saw the five-time champions sent packing prematurely once again.

Ederson preparing to complete United move 

Prior to his international involvement, United agreed a £38.5 million (£35m upfront plus £3.5m in add-ons) deal with Atalanta to make Ederson their first acquisition of the summer.

It’s a signing that’s drawn mixed reactions from supporters, given that he has only really proven himself in Serie A and isn’t what most would consider a world-class player to add to Michael Carrick’s ranks.

Yet, from INEOS’ perspective, Ederson is an ideal name to have in the team as they prepare for a season with Champions League football back on the schedule.

He’s experienced, relatively low cost in today’s market and still young, so why not take a punt?

Elsewhere, it was revealed yesterday that United were sizing up an approach for another Brazilian in the form of Chelsea’s Andrey Santos, 22, who had fallen out of favour at Stamford Bridge last term.

Read more: ‘Direct club-to-club contact’ underway — United ramp up pursuit of standout WC star who’s ‘keen’ on move

Author

  • Isabel, 25, is a football writer who has previously gained experience in the industry as the editor of Stretty News, along with work on Caught Offside, Last Word on Football and Give Me Sport. She is now the editor of UtdReport.