Just when you think you’ve seen it all in the social world of Manchester United, the on/off saga regarding Ederson and his potential Premier League move has opened a new can of worms.
A bizarre couple of days have pitted journalists against faceless Twitter profiles, with various outlets competing for their pound of summer flesh.
The Brazilian, previously destined to become Michael Carrick’s first signing of the window, has seen a dream deal plunged into uncertainty after multiple reports suggested that his fitness was deemed unsuitable.
Late on Friday evening, at a perfect 30 minutes past seven, Fabrizio Romano revealed that the pursuit was off and that the 20-time English champions had informed Atalanta of the collapse.
For those of you who spend time immersed in social media, you’ll know that this followed Sunday’s initial revelation from the Twitter account @Djaameel_, which stated Ederson would not be making the move.
Regardless, numerous journalists were quick to refute these allegations, suggesting that the Reds were denying any such reports.
Whatever way you look at it, it’s hard to feel any form of gratification following weeks of online agendas, abuse, and the most unsupportive behaviour from a cohort of people who should really know better.
Should Ederson indeed remain in Italy, there is the small matter of Manchester United’s midfield requirements, though.
Casemiro’s departure left a notable void, and although Andrey Santos is the definition of an exciting purchase, an enhanced schedule requires multiple bodies.
At this stage, it’s easier to name the players who haven’t been linked with an Old Trafford move, as the perennial transfer machine plays out its usual tune.
But there are enhanced murmurings about a couple of talented individuals, and, as expected, the usual drums are again being beaten.
Joao Gomes is one such name, and a player we have long covered at the Theatre of Red.
At 25, the Brazilian has enjoyed some stellar displays in England, leading many to believe his move to play under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid was a foregone conclusion.
But following revelations of prolonged issues, from heated debates between agent and club and requirements after confirmation of Morten Hjulmand, the Wolves man appears to be back on the market.
Although some are fearful of a lack of height in the engine room, given that Gomes stands at 5 ft 9 in, his capabilities and domestic output stand far taller. Furthermore, Kobbie Mainoo is hardly what you’d call ‘short’ at 6 ft.
Jason Wilcox and his sporting department are long-term admirers of the Brazilian. As we exclusively revealed in November, our sources indicated that he was “ticking the boxes” for this Ineos team then.
Admittedly, despite some stating talks have already begun, I have not heard the same. Still, given what we have already covered in reports, I certainly would not be against an approach.
| Joao Gomes Premier League output per 90′ | 2023-2024 Season (Percentile) | 2024-2025 Season (Percentile) |
| Tackles | 4.35 (99th) | 3.51 (91st) |
| Tackles won | 2.51 (97th) | 2.15 (93rd) |
| Dribblers challenged | 3.36 (95th) | 3.33 (90th) |
| Tackles & interceptions | 4.96 (95th) | 4.27 (80th) |
| Dribblers tackled | 1.49 (91st) | 3.33 (90th) |
| Passes blocked | 1.46 (84th) | 1.15 (82nd) |
| Ball recoveries | 6.22 (76th) | 6.05 (78th) |
Statistics available at fbref.com
The second name to have stood at the centre of accelerated speculation in the past 24 hours is Manu Kone.
Currently enjoying a fine run in France’s starting XI at the World Cup, the Roma midfielder offers a sublime portfolio of central physicality, ball progression and a forward-thinking mentality.
With three years remaining on his Serie A deal, Kone appears primed for a Champions League stage, having earned widespread applause since his move to Rome in August 2024.
Having gained experience in Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga beforehand, the 25-year-old stands four inches taller than Gomes, and with a price tag in the region of €50 million, could offer a very sensible summer move.
Still, in a world where data-driven advances are the most popular method of identifying potential targets, it is crucial to recognise the startling similarities between the Frenchman and the Aformentioned Ederson.
| Figures via DataMB | Manu Kone, Serie A percentile 2025-26 | Ederson, Serie A percentile 2025-26 |
| Duel won % | 58 | 55 |
| Possessions won | 61 | 74 |
| Progressive carries | 73 | 74 |
| Forward passes | 87 | 87 |
| Forward passing % | 96 | 86 |
| Key passes | 56 | 69 |
| Progressive passes | 62 | 80 |
Before you choose to disregard the above, consider this: both operate in a similar position, with similar roles, competing against the same opposition weekly.
Furthermore, injuries have played a notable part in Kone’s campaign. The Colombes native missed 13 fixtures for club and country through four separate setbacks since January.
This alone should not remove his name from the discussion, nor should it prevent any potential deal. Nonetheless, in a world where the grass is always greener, it is important to at least acknowledge it.
Either way, I feel Gomes or Kone would be welcome additions to Carrick’s squad, and both would complement the likes of Mainoo, Santos and Bruno Fernandes.
Whether either will be pursued over the coming days and weeks is an entirely different conversation, one that I have no doubt will continue to rage on.
Let us know your thoughts on the pair in the comments or across our social channels–photos by by m.iacobucci, tiscali.it, and newsimages via depositphotos.com.
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2 responses to “Ederson revelations open the door for alternatives at Manchester United”
Unfortunately, the ease of access to a phone and Wi-Fi connections seems to bring the worst out of humans in general. But I have generally chosen to trust the recruitment department of the club.
It’s probably the best thing to do, Peter.