Official: Man Utd sign Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos

Updated: 13 Jul 2026 14:04 BST | 4 min read

Tom Weber | Writer

Multilingual sports writer who specialises in European football and American soccer.

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Manchester United have announced the signing of Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos.

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The Red Devils have finally unveiled their new Brazilian midfielder - but it's not the one everyone expected it to be. Initially, Man Utd looked poised to sign Atalanta star Ederson in a €45 million package.

However, after carrying out additional examinations on a potential long-term knee issue, the club decided against completing this deal. Instead, they pivoted to Chelsea starlet Santos.

Current ETV

Andrey Santos

M, DM (C)

Man Utd

Andrey Santos

M, DM (C)

Man Utd

ETV Range

€44.4M - €54.3M

The 22-year-old is not a like-for-like alternative, but it is no surprise that Man Utd have pounced on his availability. Santos was a long-standing target for the Old Trafford club.

Already last summer, Man Utd explored a deal for the former Vasco da Gama wonderkid. His name came up during discussions with Chelsea over a deal for Alejandro Garnacho. The West London club did not want to sell at the time, but their hand was forced this time around.

Man Utd sign Santos

Santos was keen to leave Stamford Bridge in search of regular football. Man Utd, who are in the midst of a midfield rebuild and who will play Champions League football this season, were the ideal destination.

It is understood that Santos has joined the Red Devils in a deal potentially worth up to €58 million, with Chelsea retaining a 10% sell-on clause. The Brazilian midfielder has signed a contract until 2031 with the option for a further season.

✍️🇧🇷 pic.twitter.com/0YCeleYaVi
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 13, 2026

Santos is the first of multiple midfield signings this summer. Man Utd are currently in the process of finalising a deal for Aston Villa star Youri Tielemans, who is expected to undergo a medical this week.

Speaking to club media after joining, Santos stated: “Everything about Manchester United is special; it is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented.

“As a midfielder, I am really excited to have the opportunity to learn from Michael Carrick, he is the perfect coach to help me take the next step in my career and push to achieve my dreams.

“Everybody told me about how ambitious the club is and the amazing environment that has been created here. I know just how strong the squad is and I cannot wait to fight together to compete for the biggest trophies.”

Director of football Jason Wilcox said of the 22-year-old: “Andrey is an outstanding midfielder with excellent technical qualities and the ability to impact the game at both ends of the pitch.

“He was a key target for us in an important position, so we are delighted that he will join Michael’s squad so early in pre-season.

“Despite already having extensive experience, leadership abilities and proving his talent at the highest level, Andrey still has enormous potential to develop further, and we cannot wait to see him flourish at Manchester United.”

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