​The official confirmation of Andrey Santos’s shirt number at Manchester United has arrived as the transfer from Chelsea edges closer to completion. News broke two days ago that United and Chelsea had reached an agreement for Santos, part of the Red Devils’ broader plan to strengthen their attack. After missing out on their top targets, Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, United widened their search and found Santos. The Brazil international is believed to be seeking regular playing time, something he might not have guaranteed at Chelsea, especially following Moises Caicedo’s contract extension. United are set to pay Chelsea an initial £48 million for Santos, plus £2 million in add-ons described as achievable. Xabi Alonso’s side reportedly secured a 10% sell-on clause in the deal. A report from The Peoples Person cited that Santos passed his United medical successfully.
Fabrizio Romano later confirmed that the 22-year-old has signed his contract and is now officially a Manchester United player. As supporters await Santos’s official unveiling, insider Sam Cohen has provided a precise update on his squad number. On X, Cohen stated: “EXCLUSIVE: Understand Andrey Santos will wear the number 17 shirt at Manchester United, I’m told.” While Santos’s new number appears settled, there is still uncertainty surrounding the situation of his fellow Brazilian, Ederson. On Friday, Romano suggested Ederson’s move to United had collapsed after the club subjected him to a more thorough medical evaluation. This claim has been echoed by Gianluca Di Marzio, though journalists based in England remain divided on the matter, with some maintaining that the deal could still proceed.
The ongoing developments around Santos continue to attract interest from United fans and pundits alike, as the club’s transfer campaign progresses. The Peoples Person has established itself as one of the leading United-focused outlets, delivering updates and insights for more than a decade. Follow us for ongoing coverage and analysis as the situation evolves.