​In a recent report, The Athletic claimed that Manchester United have reached an agreement to sign Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos. It is understood that the Red Devils have concluded terms with the Blues over bringing the Brazilian midfield ace to Old Trafford this summer. The 22-year-old impressed at times with his displays in Chelsea’s midfield during the previous campaign. Santos contributed three goals and four assists across 43 appearances for the Blues in all competitions last season.
The Brazilian talent is currently regarded as one of the most gifted central midfielders in the Premier League, and Manchester United appear to have done well to strike a deal that would bring him to Manchester later this year. Santos primarily operates as a defensive midfielder but possesses the versatility to function as a box-to-box option or even drop into the number ten role if required. His arrival would arguably give United a suitable successor to Casemiro in the squad.
LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 19: Andrey Santos of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on May 19, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Santos is known for his tenacious tackling and his ability to time challenges effectively, often winning crucial interceptions in the middle of the park. He is not afraid to unleash a strong strike when the opposition presses high, and he distributes the ball with commendable accuracy, keeping possession moving and transitioning play efficiently.
The Brazilian sensation also has the power to shoot from distance and the vision to create opportunities for teammates in advanced positions. Nevertheless, Santos remains relatively inexperienced at the highest level and would likely need time to establish himself as a regular starter at Old Trafford.
Despite those caveats, there is optimism that the South American talent will bring additional bite and steel to Manchester United’s midfield under head coach Michael Carrick. He possesses the potential to challenge for a regular first-team berth at the Theatre of Dreams in the coming seasons.
At just 22, Santos’ future looks promising if he continues to develop year by year. His arrival would also bolster United’s prospects in domestic and European competitions as they pursue success on multiple fronts. Consequently, Santos is seen as a prudent signing for the Red Devils during the current transfer window.