Manchester United have reached an agreement to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea, with a medical being arranged for the Brazilian midfielder. Standard Sport understands that United will pay £48 million upfront, with an additional £2 million in performance-related add-ons considered easily achievable.
Santos Seeks Regular Minutes
Standard Sport revealed on Tuesday that Santos, while appreciated by Chelsea, was open to a move elsewhere this summer in search of regular first-team football. The 22-year-old Brazilian saw his path to the starting XI blocked by Moises Caicedo’s contract extension, which meant Santos would likely remain as the Ecuadorian’s understudy next season. Chelsea wanted to keep Santos but did not view him as untouchable and were open to a sale if the price was right.
United’s Midfield Overhaul
Manchester United have been expected to revamp their midfield this summer. A deal for Santos will be part of that process after the club missed out on Mateus Fernandes, who joined Tottenham in a deal worth £85 million. With Ederson also set to arrive from Atalanta, it remains to be seen if United recruit a third midfielder before the transfer window closes. The club have been linked with Ayyoub Bouaddi among others.
Other Targets
Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni is another player reportedly on United’s shortlist, but Real Madrid are reluctant to sell the Frenchman, who remains an important part of their plans. They are expected to demand a fee of at least €100 million (£85 million) if they consider offers. Felix Nmecha is said to be another option, but Borussia Dortmund value the 25-year-old at around €120 million (£103 million).
The deal for Santos represents a significant addition to United’s midfield as they look to strengthen under manager Erik ten Hag.
