Manchester United were expected to be very busy throughout the summer transfer window after their third-place finish last term.

Michael Carrick's side needs greater squad depth ahead of an important 2026/27 campaign in both the Premier League and Champions League, as well as the domestic cup competitions.

The club have addressed one of their biggest weaknesses in midfield, completing the impressive double signing of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans for a combined £85 million.

However, before either of those players was signed, it was reported that United had reached an agreement with Atalanta to sign Ederson, although that deal ultimately did not end up happening.

Throughout the entire World Cup, it seemed like Ederson would be playing for United when he returned from Brazil duty. But in the end, reports claimed that problems with his medical led to the Reds pulling out of the deal and pivoting to Santos and Tielemans.

However, in a new interview with Sky Sports, Ederson has explained his side of the story and claimed that there were no problems during his medical.

“Honestly, I do not know what happened," the midfielder said. “I've always had offers and interest from other clubs, and I could have moved to another English club.

“The medical checks went fine, but I don't know what happened. I spent four years at Atlanta and was always playing, I don't know."

Following the collapse of his dream move, Ederson signed a new contract at Atalanta and he will continue playing for the Italian side.

While Ederson's dream move to the Reds is no longer on the cards, Carlos Baleba appears like he will finally get his wish of joining Manchester United.

The Brighton midfielder wanted to make the move last summer and agreed personal terms with United, but his club refused to back down from a price tag of over £100 million. 

However, it was revealed by David Ornstein this week that United are closing in on an agreement with the Seagulls for the midfield talent.

Despite experiencing difficulties throughout last season, the Reds trust that Baleba can turn things around and develop under Carrick.

Should the deal get over the line, Baleba will join Santos, Tielemans, Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount as depth for the two deeper midfield positions at Old Trafford. Tyler Fletcher will also be hoping for minutes this season, after travelling to the World Cup with Scotland and impressing in pre-season.