Manchester United are currently exploring a potential deal for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, according to reports from The Guardian and confirmations from journalists David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano. While no formal bid has been submitted, Chelsea are reportedly open to a sale should an offer in the region of £50million materialize, as the 22-year-old seeks more consistent first-team football.
Why is Manchester United targeting Andrey Santos?
Manchester United’s pursuit of Santos follows a strategic shift in their midfield recruitment. According to The Guardian, the club is looking to add depth after missing out on targets such as Mateus Fernandes and Elliot Anderson. While United have already secured a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson, the club’s leadership remains intent on further reinforcements.
Santos, who joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in 2023, has gained significant experience through loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg. During the 2025/26 campaign, he made 43 appearances across all competitions under manager Enzo Maresca. Despite this output, his path to a regular starting role at Stamford Bridge remains obstructed by Moises Caicedo, making a move to Old Trafford a viable avenue for the player to secure more minutes.
What is the current status of the negotiations?
As of now, the interest remains in the exploratory phase. David Ornstein confirmed via X that while Manchester United are keen, the move is contingent on price and the willingness of all parties. Fabrizio Romano corroborated this, noting that while inquiries have been made to the player’s agents, there has been no formal approach or bid delivered to Chelsea.
Crucially, both sources indicate that Chelsea does not view the Brazilian as “untouchable.” If a substantial proposal arrives, the club is prepared to facilitate a transfer. This marks a departure from the “hands-off” status often afforded to high-potential young players at Stamford Bridge.
Andrey Santos scored three goals during his 2025/26 campaign with Chelsea, proving his utility as a defensive midfielder capable of contributing to the attack.
How does the Santos interest compare to other midfield targets?
Manchester United’s scouting list is extensive. Beyond Santos, the club is reportedly monitoring Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha. The situation regarding Nmecha provides a clear look at how United’s new recruitment structure operates; the club has an advantage due to director of football Jason Wilcox’s familiarity with the player.
However, the financial requirements for these targets vary significantly. While Chelsea may accept a £50million fee for Santos, reports suggest Nmecha could command a significant fee. This price disparity highlights a tactical decision for INEOS: whether to invest in the potential of Santos or pursue the more established Bundesliga talent.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Has Manchester United made an official bid for Andrey Santos? No. According to Fabrizio Romano, the club has made an inquiry to understand the situation, but no formal bid has been submitted to Chelsea.
- Why would Chelsea sell a highly rated player like Santos? The club considers him a saleable asset. With Moises Caicedo currently blocking his path to the starting XI, Chelsea is open to a transfer if a good proposal is presented.
- Who else is Manchester United targeting in midfield? The club is also keeping tabs on Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha, among others.
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