Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, marking a significant addition to their squad during the summer 2026 transfer window. According to reports from The Athletic, the deal is valued at £48 million, with an additional £2 million in performance-related bonuses.
As part of the agreement, Chelsea will retain a 10 per cent sell-on clause for the 22-year-old. Santos has already finalized personal terms with the Old Trafford club and has been granted permission by Chelsea to undergo a medical and complete the move.
The decision to depart Stamford Bridge follows the long-term contract extension of Moises Caicedo, which limited Santos’ prospects for a guaranteed starting role. Santos, who joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in 2023 and spent the 2024-25 season on loan at RC Strasbourg, made 43 appearances across all competitions last season, contributing three goals and four assists.
The recruitment process was significantly influenced by Manchester United’s director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell, who previously oversaw the midfielder’s initial move to Chelsea. The transfer represents a strategic shift in United’s midfield restructuring following their failed pursuit of Mateus Fernandes.