Manchester United sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea in £50m deal

Manchester United have completed the signing of Brazil international midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea in a deal worth £50 million, making him the first permanent arrival under new head coach Michael Carrick.

The agreement includes an initial £48 million fee with a further £2 million in performance-related add-ons, while Chelsea have retained a 10 per cent sell-on clause.

The 22-year-old arrives at Old Trafford after an impressive 2025-26 campaign, during which he made 43 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea, scoring three goals and providing four assists.

Despite his growing influence, Santos opted for a fresh challenge after facing increased competition for midfield places, particularly following Moises Caicedo’s long-term contract extension.

Born on May 3, 2004, in Rio de Janeiro, Santos began his professional career with Vasco da Gama, where he quickly established himself as one of Brazil’s brightest young midfielders.

His performances earned him a move to Chelsea in January 2023.

To accelerate his development, Chelsea loaned Santos to Nottingham Forest before another successful spell with French side Strasbourg, where he gained valuable first-team experience.

He returned to Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2025-26 season and became an important member of the squad, helping Chelsea enjoy one of their strongest runs of form with eight consecutive victories while partnering Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo in midfield.

During his time at Chelsea, Santos lifted the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, adding major honours to his growing résumé.

On the international stage, Santos has represented Brazil from youth level through to the senior national team.

He captained Brazil to victory at the 2023 South American Under-20 Championship, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals despite playing in midfield.

He later earned his senior international debut and is regarded by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) as one of the country's most promising midfield talents.

Speaking after completing the transfer, Santos expressed his excitement about joining United.

“Everything about Manchester United is special. It is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented. I am excited to work with Michael Carrick and help the team compete for the biggest trophies”, he said.

Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, described Santos as a priority target.

“Andrey is an outstanding midfielder with excellent technical qualities and the ability to influence matches at both ends of the pitch. We are delighted to bring him to the club”.

United are expected to continue strengthening their midfield before the transfer window closes, with Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans and several other players remaining on the club’s shortlist.