LA Galaxy want Chelsea wonderkid

Jacque Talbot

• Updated: 24 Feb 2023 15:10 GMT
• 3 min read

LA Galaxy are after Chelsea’s Andrey Santos.

The 18-year-old midfielder was bought by the Blues over the January window but the MLS wish to loan the player after his move to Palmeiras fell through.

Palmeiras wanted Santos on loan but could not agree with Chelsea over terms and now Galaxy have made their feelings clear.

The Brazilian sensation was set to join Palmeiras on loan until December, following his switch to Stamford Bridge from Vasco da Gama in the winter window

But a sticking point is potentially Santos’ release for the U-20 World Cup and also his return to England on July 1.

It comes after his second application for a work permit was rejected, so he is unable to play in England yet.

Goal reports that Galaxy have handed in a proposal - though the player wishes to find a club that could hand him a tougher challenge until his work visa is given the green light.

The American outfit have confirmed that they are willing to agree to the conditions set by Chelsea, who could therefore force a move for the midfielder.

Meanwhile, Vasco are also ready to abide by the conditions of Chelsea and would like to take him back, this time on loan.

But if Santos refuses a move to either side then Chelsea will have to continue looking for alternatives.

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Brexit complications

Rules state that he must play a sufficient number of minutes in the top tiers across the world to allow him a work permit.

Complications have arisen because of the UK’s decision to leave the European Union - leaving some foreign players out of sorts in terms of gaining access to play for their clubs.

Further red tape following Brexit has skewed the transition for new arrivals from abroad.