Manchester United are facing competition from Premier League rivals Newcastle United to sign Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos this summer, according to Standard Sport. The 22-year-old Brazilian is open to leaving Stamford Bridge in search of regular first-team football after making just 13 Premier League starts last season.
Santos Seeks More Playing Time
Santos, who is appreciated by Chelsea, is exploring his options after Moises Caicedo’s contract extension solidified his position as the Ecuadorian’s understudy. Chelsea are keen to keep Santos but do not view him as untouchable and would consider selling him if the price is right. Newcastle have signalled their interest, joining Manchester United in the race for the midfielder.
Chelsea Open to Selling Garnacho
Standard Sport also understands that Chelsea are open to selling Alejandro Garnacho, just one year after he joined from Manchester United in a deal worth around £40 million. The 22-year-old Argentine winger scored only one Premier League goal last season and made just 14 league starts, struggling for consistency despite eight goals in all competitions. Chelsea would only consider a permanent transfer and will not entertain loan offers.
Garnacho is attracting interest from several clubs in the market for wingers, but no club-to-club talks have taken place. The arrival of Portuguese teenager Geovany Quenda from Sporting means Chelsea are revamping their wide options, and Garnacho has been deemed surplus to requirements. New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso, who favours a 3-4-2-1 formation, expects wingers to fulfil defensive duties, an area where Garnacho has often struggled.
Chalobah Also Available
Similarly, Chelsea are open to selling Trevoh Chalobah, who is attracting interest from Italy and is keen on a move abroad after conversations with former team-mate Ruben Loftus-Cheek.
Chelsea return to pre-season training on Thursday, July 9, with both Santos and Garnacho expected to report to the club’s Cobham training ground.
