Report: Arsenal, Newcastle and Man United set to be beat to Brazilian midfielder

Report: Arsenal, Newcastle and Man United set to be beat to Brazilian midfielder

Atlético face Ederson transfer stalemate amid Arsenal and Man Utd interest

Negotiations hit standstill in Madrid pursuit

Atlético Madrid’s long-running chase for Ederson has drifted into uncertainty, with talks now described as being at an impasse. According to the original source, AS, discussions between Atlético, Atalanta and the player have stalled, leaving one of Europe’s most sought-after midfielders in limbo as the summer window approaches.

The Spanish club had identified Ederson as a cornerstone addition, a dynamic presence capable of anchoring midfield while driving transitions. Yet despite months of dialogue and even what was reported as a verbal understanding earlier in the year, progress has unravelled at a critical juncture.

AS reports that negotiations are now “at a standstill, both with Atalanta and with the player himself”, a development that underlines just how fragile high-level transfer dealings can be. Atlético’s hierarchy had hoped to secure the Brazilian ahead of pre-season, but the deal is now far from straightforward.

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Ederson profile attracts Arsenal and Man Utd

This uncertainty has not gone unnoticed elsewhere. Clubs across Europe are monitoring the situation closely, including Arsenal and Man Utd, both of whom have been linked with strengthening their midfield options.

Ederson’s appeal is obvious. A modern all-action midfielder, he blends defensive steel with technical composure and an ability to carry the ball through pressure. His performances for Atalanta have elevated his reputation, placing him firmly on the radar of Premier League heavyweights.

Reports indicate that he previously rejected approaches from several clubs, including sides in England such as Arsenal and Man Utd, as well as interest from Italy and Brazil. His preference had been clear, with Atlético emerging as his desired destination. As AS noted, he had turned down “several teams, some from England, Italy and even Brazil, for the dream of signing for Atlético”.

However, football’s transfer landscape rarely remains static. With negotiations faltering, the possibility of Arsenal or Man Utd reigniting their interest cannot be dismissed. Both clubs are in phases of squad evolution, and a player of Ederson’s profile fits the demands of Premier League intensity.

Atalanta stance complicates deal structure

At the heart of the impasse lies Atalanta’s valuation. The Serie A side are willing sellers, but only on their terms. Ederson has been priced at around €45 million, a figure Atlético are reluctant to meet without negotiation.

From a strategic perspective, Atlético believe time could work in their favour. Ederson is approaching the final year of his contract, theoretically reducing his market value as the summer progresses. Yet Atalanta’s negotiating position remains firm, reinforced by their track record of extracting maximum value for key assets.

AS highlights the tension succinctly, pointing out that Atlético are determined “not to give in to the demands of agents”. This stance reflects a broader discipline in the club’s recruitment strategy, but it also risks losing ground in a competitive market.

Complicating matters further is Atalanta’s urgency to reshape their squad. They are keen to resolve Ederson’s future before pre-season, signalling a desire for clarity rather than prolonged negotiations.

Future outlook for transfer battle

Despite the current deadlock, the situation remains fluid. Atlético have not abandoned their pursuit, and internal discussions continue as they weigh alternative options. Names such as Marc Bernal have emerged as potential contingencies, though none carry the same profile or immediate impact as Ederson.

For the player himself, the scenario presents a delicate balance. He remains open to a move to Madrid, but not at any cost. As reported, he still “hopes to arrive at the Metropolitano, but not at any price”, a stance that suggests personal terms could be a sticking point.

This opens a window of opportunity for Arsenal and Man Utd. Both clubs possess the financial muscle and sporting appeal to pivot quickly if the deal collapses. In a market where timing is everything, hesitation from one party often invites decisive action from another.

Ultimately, Ederson’s future will hinge on alignment between valuation, wages and ambition. Atlético’s patience may yet pay off, but with Premier League interest lingering, the margin for delay is narrowing. What began as a targeted acquisition has evolved into a multi-club contest, and the next move could define the trajectory of this transfer saga.