Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos in a deal worth £50 million, strengthening their midfield ahead of the new Premier League season.
The transfer package includes £48 million in guaranteed payments and an additional £2 million in performance-related bonuses. Chelsea have also negotiated a 10 per cent sell-on clause, ensuring they will benefit financially from any future transfer involving the 22-year-old.
Santos is now preparing to undergo a medical before completing his move to Old Trafford, where manager Michael Carrick is looking to rebuild United’s midfield following a busy summer of changes.
The Brazil international had found regular first-team opportunities increasingly difficult at Chelsea. The club’s absence from European competition next season, coupled with Moisés Caicedo’s long-term contract extension, reduced Santos’ chances of becoming a permanent starter at Stamford Bridge.
After joining Chelsea from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama, Santos spent time on loan at Nottingham Forest and Chelsea’s sister club Strasbourg before returning to establish himself in the first team. Last season, he made 43 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing four assists.
Manchester United are not expected to stop their recruitment with Santos. The club is also closing in on a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson as Carrick prioritises reinforcing the centre of the pitch following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury sustained during the FIFA World Cup.
United are also targeting reinforcements in attack. Crysencio Summerville remains the club’s preferred option for the left wing, although Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in the West Ham winger. Any move could depend on funds generated from the potential sale of Marcus Rashford, whose future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, now in charge of AC Milan, has publicly apologised to United supporters following his dismissal earlier this year. Amorim admitted he made mistakes during his spell at Old Trafford and said he regretted not addressing fans before leaving the club.
