Manchester United have completed the signing of Brazil international Andrey Santos from Chelsea in a deal worth up to £50 million, making the midfielder their first major acquisition of the summer transfer window.
The deal comprises a guaranteed £48 million fee plus £2 million in performance-related add-ons, while Chelsea have secured a 10 per cent sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
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United reached an agreement with Chelsea last week, and the 22-year-old has now completed his medical and signed a contract until June 2031, with the option of a further 12 months.
Man United hail key midfield addition
Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox described Santos as a priority target for the club.
“Andrey is an outstanding midfielder with excellent technical qualities and the ability to impact the game at both ends of the pitch,” Wilcox said.
“He was a key target for us in an important position.
“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.”
Santos eager for Old Trafford challenge
Santos said joining United fulfilled a lifelong ambition and expressed excitement about working under manager Michael Carrick.
“Everything about Manchester United is special,” Santos said.
“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.”
Fresh opportunity after Chelsea spell
Santos made 43 appearances for Chelsea last season and was part of the squad that won the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The transfer hands United a dynamic young midfielder as Carrick continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new season, with Santos expected to play a key role in the club’s bid to return to domestic and European contention.
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