Manchester United have launched a major midfield overhaul under new manager Michael Carrick, securing Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50 million and activating the £36 million release clause for Aston Villa's Youri Tielemans. The moves come as the club's pursuit of Atalanta's Ederson has stalled after he failed a medical due to a knee problem.
Santos Reveals Carrick's Influence
Andrey Santos, 22, who made 43 appearances for Chelsea last season, has credited Carrick's role in his decision to join United. Speaking to the club's website, Santos said: "Everything about Manchester United is special; it is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented. As a midfielder, I am really excited to have the opportunity to learn from Michael Carrick, he is the perfect coach to help me take the next step in my career and push to achieve my dreams."
The Brazilian international added: "Everybody told me about how ambitious the club is and the amazing environment that has been created here. I know just how strong the squad is and I cannot wait to fight together to compete for the biggest trophies."
Ederson Deal in Jeopardy
United had earlier agreed a fee of £35 million plus £3.8 million in add-ons for Atalanta's Ederson. However, the Brazilian midfielder was called up to his country's World Cup squad and subsequently failed a medical when a knee issue was discovered. The transfer has been put on ice, though United could revisit the deal if they renegotiate terms with Atalanta.
The decision to pursue Tielemans has cast further doubt on Ederson's move to Old Trafford. Tielemans, 29, has a contract until 2028 but his release clause has been activated by United. The Belgian international brings vast Premier League experience, having joined Leicester City in January 2019. He famously scored the winning goal in the 2021 FA Cup final against Chelsea and was instrumental in Aston Villa's fourth-place league finish and Europa League triumph last season, scoring again in the 3-0 final victory over SC Freiburg.
Midfield Reshape After Casemiro Exit
Carrick's midfield rebuild follows the departure of Casemiro at the end of last season and an injury to Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte during the World Cup. Ugarte, who was expected to be sold, is now sidelined, leaving United short of options. The club has moved quickly to address the gap, with Santos and Tielemans set to provide depth and quality.
United's summer spending could total £85 million if both deals are completed, with Santos already signed and Tielemans expected to follow shortly. The club's director of football, Jason Wilcox, has been instrumental in negotiating the transfers.
