Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos in a deal worth up to £50 million, according to multiple British media reports.
The transfer package is understood to include an initial payment of £48 million, with a further £2 million in performance-related add-ons. Chelsea have also negotiated a 10 per cent sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Reports indicate that Santos has already agreed personal terms with Manchester United and has been granted permission to undergo a medical before completing his move to Old Trafford. If the medical is successful, the 22-year-old is expected to sign a long-term contract with the Red Devils.
The Brazilian midfielder joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in 2023 and has since spent time on loan, including spells at Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg, before breaking into Chelsea’s first-team squad. Last season, he made 43 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing four assists.
Manchester United’s move for Santos comes as the club continues to strengthen its midfield ahead of the new campaign. The club has been active in the transfer market following changes to its midfield options and is also pursuing additional reinforcements before the start of the season.
Chelsea’s decision to sanction the transfer is believed to have been influenced by strong competition for places in midfield and the opportunity to generate significant funds while retaining a future financial interest through the sell-on clause.
Neither Manchester United nor Chelsea had issued an official announcement confirming the transfer at the time of publication. The deal is expected to be completed once Santos successfully undergoes his medical and final paperwork is signed.