After missing out on Mateus Fernandes, Man. United eyes Chelsea midfielder

After losing Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham for €98 million, Manchester United is reportedly considering a move for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, according to The Athletic. Any potential deal, however, is still in its very early stages, with no direct talks yet initiated between the clubs.

Inquiries from various interested clubs have, to date, been conducted through the 22-year-old player's agents. The Brazilian international is determined to secure a regular spot in Xabi Alonso's squad, and Chelsea highly values their asset, who arrived from Vasco da Gama in January 2023, especially as the club could potentially lose Enzo Fernández this summer.

Andrey Santos, capable of playing as both a number 6 and a number 8, showcased his quality during an 18-month loan spell at Strasbourg and by establishing himself in the London club's first team last season, where he made 43 appearances, scoring three goals and providing four assists across all competitions in the 2025/26 campaign.

The young Brazilian's name has been on Manchester United's radar for some time, but a transfer's completion will largely hinge on Chelsea's asking price. However, the Stamford Bridge club is unlikely to block a move if the offer proves beneficial for all parties involved. He is under contract until June 2030 and boasts a market value of €40 million, according to Transfermarkt.

Manchester United's priority for this transfer window has been strengthening their midfield. This need was exacerbated by Casemiro's departure at the end of last season following the expiration of his contract, and by the severe knee ligament injury suffered by Manuel Ugarte while on international duty with Uruguay at the 2026 World Cup, which will sideline him for an extended period.

Before turning their attention to Andrey Santos, Manchester United had shown interest in other targets who ultimately moved elsewhere. English international Elliot Anderson joined Manchester City for €135 million, while Mateus Fernandes was signed by Tottenham from West Ham for €98 million.

In parallel, Manchester United has already secured a midfield reinforcement, having reached an agreement with Atalanta for the signing of Ederson. The deal, subject to medical examinations, involves an initial fixed fee of €40.5 million, plus an additional €4.5 million in variables.