Manchester United have reportedly taken advantage of ongoing transfer negotiations with Chelsea over Alejandro Garnacho to enquire about the availability of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos.
The Red Devils are in the process of reshaping their squad under new manager Ruben Amorim, who has made it clear that several first-team stars are not part of his long-term plans. Garnacho is among the high-profile names heading for the exit, with his move to Stamford Bridge described by insiders as one of the worst-kept secrets of the summer transfer window.
Garnacho’s imminent Chelsea switch
The 20-year-old winger, who has been a fan favourite at Old Trafford, was left out of Amorim’s pre-season project and has been actively searching for a new club. Marcus Rashford has already sealed a blockbuster move to Barcelona, and Garnacho is now expected to follow suit with Chelsea pushing to finalise a deal before the transfer deadline.
The Blues, however, have asked the Argentine to remain patient while they continue to offload fringe players to make room in their squad. Despite the delay, the expectation is that Garnacho will officially become a Chelsea player in the coming days.
United’s interest in Andrey Santos
While talks over Garnacho’s transfer progressed, Manchester United saw an opening to ask about Andrey Santos. The 21-year-old midfielder joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in January 2023 but has spent most of his time out on loan. After an 18-month spell at Strasbourg, where he earned praise for his dynamic performances and maturity in midfield, Santos returned to Stamford Bridge this summer.
British journalist Ben Jacobs revealed on The United Stand that Santos’ name was brought up during discussions between the two clubs. United are said to admire the Brazilian’s talent and believe he could add depth and energy to their midfield.
However, Chelsea have made it clear that Santos is not for sale. The club view him as one of their brightest young prospects and an important part of their long-term project. With the departures of several midfielders in recent windows, the Blues intend to give the youngster opportunities in the first team this season.
Chelsea’s stance
For Chelsea, the priority is managing their bloated squad while also ensuring their best young players are not lost to rivals. Santos, described by scouts as a “special talent,” has been earmarked as one of the players who could eventually grow into a central figure at Stamford Bridge. Selling him to Manchester United—especially during a period of transition at Old Trafford—would go against Chelsea’s recruitment model, which has focused heavily on securing and developing young talents for the future.
What it means for United
Manchester United’s interest in Santos underlines their ambition to refresh their midfield options. With Casemiro’s form dipping last season and doubts surrounding the futures of players like Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay, Amorim is keen on bringing in new energy. Santos, with his box-to-box qualities and ability to dictate tempo, fits the profile of the type of midfielder United are looking to build around.
For now, though, Chelsea’s stance appears firm. United may need to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements, while continuing to focus on completing Garnacho’s transfer.
