Manchester United are reportedly edging closer to a deal for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, with talks now progressing between the clubs.
Daily Mail Sport reports that there is growing confidence a deal can be agreed, with Chelsea seeking around £50m for the Brazil midfielder.
The 22-year-old joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in 2023 and made 43 appearances last season, scoring three goals.
Santos is highly rated at Stamford Bridge, but is not viewed as a guaranteed starter. Chelsea are said to be open to a sale if their valuation is met.
United’s midfield need has grown across the summer. Casemiro has left the club, while Manuel Ugarte suffered knee ligament damage with Uruguay at the World Cup.
The Guardian previously reported that United were targeting Santos, with Chelsea valuing him at about £50m.
Carrick Pushes For Midfield Reinforcement
Santos would give Michael Carrick a young, mobile and technically secure midfield option.
United have already agreed a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, but the club still appear to be looking for more depth and control in central areas.
The need has become sharper after United missed out on other targets. Elliot Anderson joined Manchester City, while Mateus Fernandes moved to Tottenham Hotspur.
Santos’ profile fits a different part of the rebuild. He can play as a box-to-box midfielder, carry possession and help United protect the ball better in the middle third.
Chelsea’s £50m stance still makes the deal expensive. It also reflects the risk of selling a young player to a direct Premier League rival.
For United, the calculation is clearer. Carrick needs midfield legs, long-term value and players who can grow with the squad.
If talks continue to progress, Santos could become one of the most significant early signings of United’s summer rebuild.
