United drop Ancelotti call‑up, eye another Brazilian in €45m saga

Around €45 million was the reported price in advanced talks for Brazilian midfielder João Gomes, who had been linked with Atlético de Madrid before Manchester United shifted its focus. United gave up on an Ancelotti call‑up and now chase another Brazilian talent.

Éderson was called up to represent Brazil at the FIFA World Cup after Wesley was cut, but the defensive midfielder will no longer be joining Manchester United. He failed his medical, causing the deal with Atalanta to collapse.

The Red Devils' focus – having already reached an agreement with Andrey Santos – has now shifted to João Gomes of Wolverhampton. The club’s interest follows the collapse of the Éderson move.

João Gomes came through Flamengo's academy and was in very advanced talks with Atlético de Madrid for around €45 million. Agent Jorge Mendes, who was brokering the deal, also took Bernardo Silva to Real Madrid, and Atleti pulled out after becoming annoyed with Mendes' conduct.

Despite Wolverhampton's relegation to the Championship, the No. 8 still stands out and is reportedly on Liverpool's radar. The midfielder’s profile remains high across England.

Éderson is expected back in Italy with Atalanta, and journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that the Bergamo club believes he is 100 % fit and able to train for the new season. The defensive midfielder entered the 81st minute against Haiti and the 79th minute in the match that saw Brazil eliminated by Norway.

The article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence, highlighting the role of technology in modern reporting. Shaun Botterill – Getty Images – provided the accompanying photograph.

These developments illustrate how medical results, agent negotiations and club priorities can reshape transfer plans across Europe, affecting both the Red Devils and other Premier League sides.