Ederson breaks ranks explaining why Man Utd transfer fell through despite agreement with Atalanta

Atalanta midfielder Ederson has finally addressed his failed move to Manchester United.

Ederson looked set to become United’s first summer signing back in June, with it widely reported the Premier League side had agreed a deal worth £35million with Atalanta.

However, the deal was then delayed when the midfielder received a late call-up to Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil World Cup squad, although formalities, such as a medical, were expected to be completed after the tournament.

United had planned for Ederson to begin training with the squad in early July, but later medical tests carried out in the United States showed an issue with the player’s knee, which led to the deal being called off.

In mid-July, it was reported that United could reignite their interest in the Brazilian, although they have since signed midfielder Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea, while also closing in on a move for Brighton and Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba.

READ NEXT: Harry Kane publicly addresses whether he'll return to Premier League after Man Utd and Spurs links

United made clear that the subsequent transfers were not triggered by issues with Ederson.

Ederson addresses failed Man Utd move

And finally, the Brazilian has spoken out about the failed move, having since penned a contract extension with Atalanta.

Speaking before Atalanta’s Conference play-off clash with Hapoel Tel Aviv, Ederson said: “I honestly don’t know what happened.

“I always had interest from other clubs, and I could’ve gone to another English side.

“The tests went well, I don’t know what changed. I’ve been with Atalanta for four years and always played.

“I could’ve just waited to see what happened, but the great rapport with the club convinced me to stay and sign a new contract.”

The 27-year-old, who has made 180 appearances for the Serie A side, vowed to return to club football with the correct mentality rather than stewing over what might have been.

“I had lovely moments going to the World Cup with Brazil, and then… I still don’t know what happened, to be honest,” he added.

“But the important thing is that I was able to deal with the situation, return with the right mentality and give my all to the club that gave me so much.

“I am still Ederson, everyone knows me here and what I can do, they know I will always give my all.

“I am very happy to remain with Atalanta, I really thank the club and (CEO) Luca Percassi.

“They called me many times, I felt they were by my side, but even though I had interest from other clubs, after everything that happened, I thought it was best to stick with who really wanted me, and that was always Atalanta.

“I was happy to wear the jersey that has given me so much joy.”

Atalanta kick off their Serie A campaign at home against Sassuolo on August 23.