Manchester United have been given fresh encouragement in their pursuit of Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, with the Brazilian reportedly ready to leave Stamford Bridge in search of regular first-team football.
The 22-year-old is understood to be open to a permanent transfer this summer after finding consistent opportunities difficult to secure at Chelsea despite impressing during his development. Sources close to the player indicate that a move to Old Trafford would be viewed as an attractive next step in his career.
Santos joined Chelsea from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama in an £18 million deal in 2023 but has spent much of his time gaining experience away from Stamford Bridge.
A productive loan spell at Strasbourg enhanced his reputation, and although he returned to Chelsea with hopes of establishing himself in the first team, competition for places in midfield has continued to limit his prospects. With Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández firmly established, Santos believes a move elsewhere would offer a better route to regular football.
Manchester United are among the clubs monitoring the situation.
The Red Devils are looking to strengthen their midfield after missing out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes earlier in the transfer window, and Santos has emerged as one of several options under consideration. Reports suggest United have already held internal discussions over the Brazil international as they continue reshaping their squad.
Michael Carrick is keen to add energy and technical quality in midfield, and Santos fits the profile United are targeting.
Capable of operating as a box-to-box midfielder or in a deeper playmaking role, the Brazilian offers tactical flexibility that could prove valuable as United prepare for the new campaign.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are prepared to listen to offers for players on the fringes of the squad as they continue balancing their finances and refining their squad for the season ahead.
Although Santos remains under a long-term contract, there is a growing acceptance that a permanent transfer could suit all parties if the right offer arrives.
Financially, any deal is unlikely to come cheaply.
Chelsea are understood to value Santos at around £50 million, reflecting both his age and potential after his encouraging performances in France. That valuation means United would need to make a significant investment if they decide to formalise their interest.
Newcastle United are also monitoring the midfielder’s situation, adding further competition should Chelsea decide to sanction a sale.
For Santos, however, the priority is clear.
Rather than remaining a squad player, the Brazil international wants to become a regular starter at the highest level. Manchester United’s project is understood to appeal to him, offering the chance to compete for major honours while playing a more prominent role than he currently enjoys at Stamford Bridge.
No formal bid has yet been submitted, but with the transfer window gathering pace and United continuing their search for midfield reinforcements, Santos is emerging as one of the most intriguing names on their shortlist.
Whether Chelsea are ultimately willing to part with one of their brightest young midfielders could depend on whether United meet the Blues’ valuation and present a convincing sporting project.
