Carrick denied dream Man Utd transfer scenario as statement released | Football | Sport

Manchester United may be forced to wait to complete their first signing of the summer after Ederson received a last-minute call-up to Brazil’s World Cup squad. The midfielder replaces Wesley, who has picked up an injury, as Carlo Ancelotti opted for the 26-year-old days before the start of the tournament.

Ederson is unlikely to be available too quickly, particularly if Brazil progress well in the World Cup. Carrick will have to wait for his midfield reinforcement as the international joins up with departing compatriot Casemiro.

With the tournament just days away, Ederson now has the chance to make his presence felt on the North American stage. Despite Wesley being a defender, Ancelotti has chosen to strengthen his midfield options, with only five players named in his initial selection.

The Italian manager picked Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Casemiro (Manchester United), Danilo (Botafogo), Fabinho (Al Ittihad) and Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo) as his choices, alongside nine defenders and nine attackers in the preliminary squad. Ederson will now push for a place in the starting eleven.

Outlining the change, the CBF confirmed in an official statement: “The Brazilian Football Confederation reports that the athlete Wesley was re-evaluated this Sunday by the Brazilian National Team’s medical commission and underwent an imaging exam.

“The MRI scan revealed a muscle injury in the adductor muscle of the left thigh.

“The CBF regrets the injury. 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 (Brazilian Football Confederation) announces the call-up of player Éderson, who will join the delegation this Monday in the United States.”

United are prioritising reinforcements in the centre of the field, with Carrick having Kobbie Mainoo at his disposal alongside more attacking options in Mason Mount and Bruno Fernandes. In addition to Casemiro, Manuel Ugarte is expected to depart this summer.

Carrick will be forced to wait for Ederson, should United complete a deal. The Red Devils’ opening friendly is scheduled for July 18 against Wrexham, with the World Cup final taking place the following day.

United are also keeping close tabs on Mateus Fernandes, who looks set to depart West Ham this summer in the wake of their relegation to the Championship. Both Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are understood to be monitoring developments with considerable interest.