Manchester United are on the verge of completing a £50million move for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, with the Brazilian undergoing a medical on Friday. However, club legends Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt have cast doubt on the signing, questioning whether the 22-year-old is ready for a starting role under manager Michael Carrick.
Scholes and Butt Question Santos' Readiness
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Scholes expressed skepticism about the investment given Santos' limited Premier League experience. "Where’ve they seen him play enough games? United aren’t in the position to be buying players for the future at this point," Scholes said. Butt echoed those concerns, adding: "He’s young and he’s for the future. It’s a surprise because we’ve been looking at big hitters coming in but we’re looking at his potential. The big thing for me is if he’s been brought in to come and start for us, United and Carrick don’t have time to let people bed in."
Santos made 43 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea last season, competing with over £200million worth of midfield talent including Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. Despite his game time, his previous loan spell at Nottingham Forest in the 2023/24 season was unremarkable. However, his performances at Strasbourg and subsequent breakthrough at Chelsea have improved his profile.
Santos Could Join Brazilian Core
Santos is expected to join compatriot Ederson in a double deal worth nearly £100million. His arrival would complement the growing Brazilian and Portuguese-speaking contingent at Old Trafford, potentially forming a new samba-style midfield. However, the doubts raised by Scholes and Butt suggest not everyone at the club is convinced.
Orlando Gill Confirms Release Clause
Meanwhile, Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill has confirmed the existence of a release clause in his contract that could facilitate a move to Manchester United. The 26-year-old has been linked with the Red Devils following impressive performances against Germany and France at the World Cup. United are reportedly seeking competition for No. 1 goalkeeper Senne Lammens and face competition from Aston Villa for Gill's signature.
Argentinian newspaper Clarin reported that Gill's current club, San Lorenzo, is in nearly £50million of debt, which could simplify negotiations. The outlet also stated Gill has a release clause of around £5.2million. Addressing the speculation, Gill said: "I can’t say yes or no. They told me there is interest, but not a formal offer. I don’t want to get carried away. We’ll sit down and speak with the club to see what is best." He added: "I have a clause in my contract and I think it has to be respected. Then it depends on the club. If it’s good for both parties, we’ll have to reach an agreement."
Gill's performances on the global stage have raised his profile, and a summer move to Old Trafford could be a reality if the clubs can agree terms.
