Manchester United Nearing Agreement for Chelsea Midfielder Andrey Santos
Manchester United agree deal to sign – Manchester United have reportedly reached an understanding with their Premier League competitors Chelsea regarding the acquisition of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos. The Red Devils are eager to strengthen their central midfield options under new manager Michael Carrick, who has identified this area as a priority during the current transfer window.
The need for reinforcement became apparent following Casemiro’s exit from Old Trafford at the conclusion of last campaign. Carrick has been working to build a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, and adding quality to the middle of the park remains high on his agenda.
Midfield Reinforcements Underway
United had initially shown interest in replacing Manuel Ugarté, whose performances had been below expectations. However, the Uruguayan midfielder has decided to remain at the club after sustaining a significant injury during the World Cup tournament. This development means Carrick must look elsewhere to address his midfield needs.
The club has already secured the signature of Brazil international Ederson from Atalanta in a separate agreement. Nevertheless, Carrick believes at least one additional midfielder is required to complete his squad overhaul. The manager has been monitoring several targets throughout the summer, with the Brazilian market proving particularly attractive.
Two of Carrick’s preferred candidates—Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes—ultimately departed for other clubs. The England World Cup participant chose to join Manchester City, while the former West Ham player opted for a move to Tottenham Hotspur. These exits prompted United to explore alternative options, including players already established in the Premier League.
The Santos Deal Takes Shape
Chelsea’s Andrey Santos has emerged as a compelling prospect for Carrick’s project. The 22-year-old has found himself increasingly peripheral at Stamford Bridge since completing his transfer from Vasco da Gama three years ago. Despite limited opportunities, Santos managed to make 43 appearances across all competitions during last season, demonstrating his potential when given playing time.
According to reports from The Athletic, United and Chelsea have agreed a valuation of £50 million for the Brazilian midfielder. The structure of the deal involves an upfront payment of £48 million, with an additional £2 million in performance-related bonuses that are considered highly achievable. Chelsea will also maintain a 10 per cent sell-on provision, ensuring they benefit if Santos’s value increases at Old Trafford.
Santos has already consented to personal terms with Manchester United and received authorization to travel to Manchester for a medical examination. His willingness to make the move reflects his desire for regular first-team football, something he has struggled to obtain at Chelsea.
Competition and Context
At Chelsea, Santos currently sits behind Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez in the pecking order. Caicedo recently committed his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract in April, while Fernandez has been unable to secure a departure despite his ambitions to join Real Madrid. The Argentine World Cup winner is understood to be valued at approximately £120 million by Chelsea, making a move to Spain unlikely at present.
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso has officially begun his tenure as Chelsea’s head coach, having signed a four-year agreement last week. The Spanish manager is expected to reshape the squad, and Santos’s position under his leadership remains uncertain. The Brazilian midfielder appears receptive to a summer transfer, recognizing that remaining at Stamford Bridge could mean further limited opportunities.
United’s pursuit of Santos follows interest in several other midfielders, including Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba, and Adam Wharton. The club’s strategy under Carrick emphasizes building depth and quality across all positions, with the midfield being a particular focus after last season’s challenges.
“I’m not thinking about my future right now. I’m here living this incredible moment for me, and we’ll see what happens after the World Cup,” said Enzo Fernandez when asked about his Chelsea prospects during the tournament.
The potential signing of Santos represents a significant investment for Manchester United, reflecting Carrick’s determination to compete at the highest level. If the deal is finalized, Santos will join a growing list of international talents arriving at Old Trafford this summer, as United look to establish themselves among Europe’s elite once again.
