Man Utd identify Ederson alternative as they 'signal interest' after deal falls through

Manchester United have reignited their interest in Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, according to reports in Brazil, after his €45 million (£38.3m) move to Atletico Madrid collapsed at the last minute.

On Friday evening, it emerged that Ederson's proposed move to United will not go ahead after the club 'changed their plans', according to Fabrizio Romano.

"Ederson to Manchester United, deal OFF and considered as collapsed as Man Utd informed Atalanta," Romano said on X. "Atalanta believe Ederson is 100% fit and will welcome the midfielder back as part of their squad."

Ederson is said to be carrying a knee injury. In fact, after Brazil were eliminated from the World Cup, United wanted him to undergo extra intensive medical tests before deciding whether to go ahead with a deal worth £35 million plus £4 million in add-ons.

It appears that deal will no longer go ahead, but United are actively looking for alternatives, according to Brazilian outlet Globo.

The report claims they have 'signalled' their interest in Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes after 'giving up' on Ederson following medical examinations.

READ MORE: Ederson's proposed transfer to Man Utd has 'collapsed' in shock twist as details emerge

United are said to have 'resumed contact' with Gomes at the end of last season but at the time, his move to Atletico Madrid was already decided. However, the deal reportedly collapsed after talks with agent Jorge Mendes broke down in the final stages.

In fact, Atlético had already agreed on the transfer fee (€45 million/£38.3m), Gomes’ salary and the length of his contract, according to Globo.

However, the Spanish club also had another agreement with Mendes involving Bernardo Silva, who ended up joining Real Madrid. This is said to have upset Atletico and a deal for Gomes was cancelled.

United have already contacted Wolves to inquire about 'pricing and business models', as per the report. Liverpool are also said to be keen.

How good is Joao Gomes?

Back in May, the 25-year-old was voted Wolves’ Players' Player of the Season after featuring heavily for the recently-relegated side.

Since joining from Brazilian side Flamengo in 2023 for a reported £15 million, he has made 130 appearances for the club, recording eight goals and six assists.

Manchester United forward Matheus Cunha, who played alongside Gomes at Wolves, has compared his former teammate to Casemiro.

"He is a bit older now but I put Casemiro's name there only to show where Joao Gomes could arrive," said Cunha. "I think Joao has the possibility to arrive. He is very humble, and he works a lot. The good teams come like a gift when you do that.

"He is unbelievable on the pitch. I feel very secure. I feel like I can lose the ball when I have my midfielders behind me. He played very well for the national team, too."

João Gomes is one of the most complete midfielders #MUFC could realistically sign if the Ederson deal collapses.

Elite ball-winning, relentless work rate, progressive carrying, composure under pressure & premier league proven. €40M is more than fair.

Brazilian Kante...🎯🇧🇷✨️ pic.twitter.com/dH5hbbsFeD

— TopCee (@UtdTopCee) July 10, 2026

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