Manchester United agree deal for Andrey Santos – Ornstein

Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea over the transfer of Brazilian central midfielder Andrey Santos, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein. The Red Devils will pay a guaranteed £48 million, with a further £2 million in easily achievable add-ons, bringing the total package to £50 million. Chelsea have also secured a 10% sell-on clause for any future sale. Santos has already agreed personal terms with Manchester United and been given permission by Chelsea to undergo a medical and finalize the move. His contract with the London club was due to run until 2030. Chelsea held the Brazilian in high regard, but after extending Moisés Caicedo’s deal and with fierce competition in midfield, Santos’ path to regular first-team football was limited. The 22-year-old himself was keen for consistent playing time. Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in January 2023. He had loan spells at Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg. In the 2025/26 season, he made 43 appearances across all competitions for Chelsea, scoring three goals and providing four assists. Strengthening the midfield has been a top priority for Manchester United this summer following the departure of Casemiro and a serious injury to Manuel Ugarte. The club had already agreed a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson, as the rebuild at Old Trafford continues.