Manchester United Agree £50m Deal to Sign Chelsea Midfielder Andrey Santos

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 — Manchester United have reportedly reached a £50 million agreement to sign Chelsea and Brazil midfielder Andrey Santos, marking another major move in the club’s summer transfer rebuild.

The deal is understood to be worth £48 million in guaranteed fees, with a further £2 million in potential add-ons. Chelsea are also expected to retain a 10 per cent sell-on clause, allowing the London club to benefit from any future transfer involving the player.

Santos is now expected to undergo a medical before finalising personal terms and completing his move to Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea from Brazilian club Vasco da Gama in January 2023, arriving in England as one of South America’s most promising young talents. However, his path to regular first-team football at Stamford Bridge became increasingly difficult due to Chelsea’s strong midfield depth.

During his time with Chelsea, Santos also spent loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg, gaining valuable experience in both English and European football.

Last season, Santos made 43 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and registering four assists. His performances showed his ability to operate as a modern midfielder, combining defensive energy, ball recovery and forward movement.

For Manchester United, the move is seen as part of a wider midfield refresh. The club has been looking to add younger, more dynamic options in the centre of the pitch, especially after changes within the squad and concerns over long-term midfield depth.

Santos offers a profile that United have been searching for. He is physically strong, comfortable on the ball and capable of playing in different midfield roles. His ability to press, intercept and carry possession could make him a valuable option in high-intensity Premier League matches.

The Brazilian’s arrival would also give United more balance in midfield. With a long season ahead across domestic and European competitions, squad depth will be crucial for maintaining consistency.

Although Santos is still young, he already has experience in Brazil, England and France. That background could help him adapt more quickly to life at Old Trafford and the demands of playing for one of the biggest clubs in world football.

For Chelsea, the sale would represent a significant financial return. The Blues signed Santos as a long-term prospect, but with strong competition for midfield places, a permanent move now appears to offer the player a clearer route to regular football.

The inclusion of a sell-on clause also suggests Chelsea still believe Santos has strong future value. If the midfielder continues to develop and is sold again later in his career, Chelsea would receive a share of the transfer fee.

Santos’ potential move also adds another layer to the transfer relationship between Chelsea and Manchester United. Deals between two major Premier League rivals always attract major attention, especially when the player involved is young, talented and still developing.

United supporters will be watching closely to see how Santos fits into the team’s midfield structure. His arrival could bring fresh energy to the squad and increase competition for places.

The deal is not yet officially complete, with the medical and final paperwork still required. However, the agreement between both clubs is a major step toward confirming Santos as a Manchester United player.

If completed, Andrey Santos will become one of United’s headline signings of the summer window and another exciting Brazilian talent to watch in the Premier League.