Manchester United have strengthened their midfield ahead of the new season by completing the signing of Brazilian international Andrey Santos from Chelsea in a deal reportedly worth around £50 million.
The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with the agreement including an option to extend his stay by a further year. The move offers Santos a fresh opportunity to establish himself after struggling for consistent game time at Stamford Bridge.
United are also expected to remain active in the transfer market, with negotiations for Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans progressing after the club abandoned plans to sign Atalanta’s Ederson because of concerns raised during his medical.
Dreams do come true.@04Andrey is proof of that 🔏 pic.twitter.com/2ZiSP7y9ai
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 13, 2026
Speaking after his unveiling, Santos expressed his excitement about beginning a new chapter with one of England’s biggest clubs.
“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.”
Santos arrives at Old Trafford with an impressive statistical profile, having recorded the Premier League’s highest pass-completion percentage and the most progressive passes per 90 minutes among midfielders aged under 22 last season.
The Brazilian has also captained his country at youth level, underlining his leadership qualities despite his age.
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Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, described the midfielder as one of the club’s priority signings and backed him to make an immediate impact.
“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.”
With pre-season preparations already underway, Santos will now look to make a strong impression as Manchester United continue building their squad ahead of the new campaign.
Ready to make his mark.
The Manchester United family welcomes you, @04Andrey 🤝🔴
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 13, 2026