Manchester United have been told that Andrey Santos is far more likely to secure regular first-team football at Old Trafford than he ever did at Chelsea, as the Brazilian midfielder closes in on a £50 million move across the Premier League.
News broke on Wednesday that United had agreed a deal worth an initial £48 million, with a further £2 million in add-ons, to bring the 22-year-old from Stamford Bridge. The deal also includes a sell-on clause. Santos has been given permission to travel to Manchester for a medical, with the final details expected to be completed shortly.
The transfer would make Santos United's first signing since Michael Carrick was appointed permanent manager. Atalanta's Ederson is also set to join for £38.8 million, as United strengthen their midfield options.
Santos' Chelsea Career and the 'Unfortunate' Scenario
Santos made 43 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions last season but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter. Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole explained why the Brazilian found it difficult to break into the team.
"The unfortunate thing for Andrey is that the two positions he can play for Chelsea are taken by Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez," Cole told Paddy Power. "He's probably behind Romeo Lavia in the pecking order when he's fit too. So it's been very difficult for him to break in, but he's been brilliant whenever he did play."
Why United Suits Santos Better
Cole believes Santos will enjoy far more minutes at United following Casemiro's departure. "He'll definitely get more game time at Manchester United with Casemiro out of the picture now," Cole said. "Granted, he's not a Sandro Tonali at the moment, but he could improve into it."
Cole added that the £50 million fee suited both clubs' financial situations. "Finances have no doubt come into play with both clubs. The fee definitely suits where both clubs are operating at the minute," he said. "He's a very, very good player with massive promise."
Cole concluded: "I had hoped he'd stay at Chelsea but it's a real good signing [for United]."
