Chelsea star 'emerges as shock Manchester United transfer target' on new six-man shortlist | OneFootball

Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton joined by four other candidates as Red Devils target midfield overhaul

Midfield duel: Andrey Santos battles Bruno Fernandes during Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Chelsea last month

Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on Chelsea's Andrey Santos as they look to strengthen in midfield.

Casemiro is out of contract next summer, with an option to extend for a further year, while captain Bruno Fernandes continues to attract attention from Saudi Arabia.

According to talkSPORT, United have therefore drawn up a six-man shortlist and are considering making two signings to strengthen Amorim's squad.

Santos is one of those said to be included, having been initially part of talks for the deal that saw Alejandro Garnacho move from United to Stamford Bridge in the summer.

The Brazilian signed for Chelsea in 2023 but did not make his debut until the Club World Cup in June. He has made nine appearances for Enzo Maresca's side so far this season.

United are also keen on Brighton's Carlos Baleba and Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, but accept that a move for either in January would prove almost impossible.

Elliott Anderson is under consideration too having shone for Nottingham Forest and impressed this season for England to force his way into Thomas Tuchel's World Cup plans.

Eddie Howe spoke earlier this season of his desire to bring Anderson back to Newcastle, but the midfielder's former club are not believed to possess any sort of buy-back clause.

A more realistic option for United is said to be former Chelsea star Conor Gallagher, who it is claimed Atletico Madrid would be willing to sell for around £35million in January.

The Englishman has started only two LaLiga matches this season and United are monitoring his situation, but would prefer a loan.

Angelo Stiller is another player United are assessing. Reports suggest that he has a £35m release clause but Stuttgart can buy him out of that for £2m.