Manchester United are reportedly 'edging closer' to a deal for Andrey Santos after opening talks with Premier League rivals Chelsea. Michael Carrick is desperate to bolster his options in midfield this summer following Casemiro's departure from Old Trafford at the end of last season.
Midfield Reinforcements Needed
United were also keen to replace Manuel Ugarte following his disappointing form, but the Uruguayan will now be staying put after suffering a devastating injury at the World Cup. Manchester United have already agreed a deal with Atalanta to sign Brazil international Ederson but want at least one more midfielder to join Carrick's squad.
Carrick saw two of his top targets – Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes – secure moves elsewhere, the England World Cup star joining Manchester City and the ex-West Ham midfielder signing for Tottenham.
Santos Emerges as Target
United have also been linked with the likes of Sandro Tonali, Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton, while Chelsea's Santos has emerged as a new target for Carrick. It was reported last week that the Red Devils had expressed interest in Santos, who has struggled for game-time since his 2023 move to Chelsea.
According to the Daily Mail, Manchester United have now opened talks with Chelsea and are 'edging closer' to signing the Brazilian. It is claimed a deal between the two Premier League giants is 'progressing', with Chelsea open to a sale as long as their fee demands are met.
£50m Asking Price
The Blues have slapped a £50m asking price on Santos, who is behind Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez in the pecking order at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea signed Santos from Brazilian club Vasco da Gama three years ago but the 22-year-old only started to feature for the west London club last season, making 43 appearances in all competitions.
Santos is believed to be open to a summer move in the pursuit of more game-time as he is likely to remain behind Caicedo and Fernandez in the thoughts of new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso. Caicedo signed a new long-term contract in April while Fernandez has so far been unable to manufacture a summer move away from Chelsea.
Fernandez Future Uncertain
The Argentine World Cup winner wants to join Real Madrid but at this stage that move looks unlikely as Chelsea want at least £120m to sanction his exit. Asked about his future at Chelsea while at the World Cup, Fernandez told DAZN: '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.'
Ex-Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Alonso officially took over at Stamford Bridge last week after signing a four-year contract to become Chelsea's new manager.
