Ederson's Brazil World Cup call-up threatens to delay £35m Manchester United transfer

Manchester United’s anticipated £35 million signing of Atalanta midfielder Ederson faces a potential delay after Brazil called him up as an emergency replacement for the injured Wesley ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

A deal between United and Atalanta was already all-but-agreed, with Ederson expected to join for £35m plus up to £4m in add-ons. The transfer had not been expected to be formally confirmed until July, but his inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad could push that timeline back further should the 26-year-old remain involved throughout the tournament in North America.

The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed the call-up on Sunday after Wesley was ruled out with a muscle injury to the adductor of his left thigh, discovered during an MRI scan. “The CBF regrets the injury,” the federation said in a statement. “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 announces the call-up of player Éderson, who will join the delegation this Monday in the United States.”

Ederson’s route into the squad is notable given that Wesley is a defender, yet Ancelotti chose to reinforce his midfield rather than his back line. Brazil’s initial selection included only five midfielders — Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al Ittihad) and Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo) — alongside nine defenders and nine attackers. Ederson now has the chance to push for a starting role.

For United, the delay is a minor complication rather than a crisis. The club had already accepted that the deal would not be wrapped up before the summer transfer window properly opened, and Ederson’s involvement in the World Cup, while extending the wait, also gives the 26-year-old a high-profile stage ahead of his expected move to Old Trafford.