Andrey Santos: Chelsea star signs Man United contract – Fabrizio Romano | OneFootball

Manchester United are about to announce their first summer signing after Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos put pen to paper on his new contract at Old Trafford, Fabrizio Romano reveals.

Brazilian Beast

The Red Devils hold a long-standing interest in Santos, dating back to last summer when attempts were made to include him in negotiations over Alejandro Garnacho’s switch to Stamford Bridge.

At that point, Chelsea were adamant that the 22-year-old was not for sale and plans were shelved, with Garnacho eventually being sold for £40 million.

However, United maintained contact with his agent, Giuliano Bertolucci, in case the opportunity to reignite a move presented itself.

Two meetings were held with Bertolucci earlier this year, in February and March, to gauge the viability of a deal this summer, sensing it was possible as the Brazil international had grown frustrated with his lack of game time in West London.

Having faced rejection from both Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes this month, United turned their attention towards Santos as an alternative this week.

A £50 million deal was quickly struck with Chelsea, who remain appreciative of his talents, but accept he is unlikely to displace Moises Caicedo or Enzo Fernandez imminently.

With approval from his club, Santos travelled to Carrington yesterday to conduct a medical. A five-year contract, with the option for an additional twelve months, was verbally accepted by the player.

Santos signs as first summer signing

With the medical having been completed without issue – which cannot be said for a different United target – Santos was scheduled to officially sign his new contract today.

Romano reveals the Rio de Janeiro native has now done so, with only an official announcement from the club left to come.

Tweet: “Andrey Santos has signed his contract as new Man United player. Up next; club statement.”

Internally, INEOS are understood to consider the £50 million to be excellent value in a market where players of similar levels are going for almost double that. There is also belief in his homeland that he is a long-term successor for Casemiro, who departed Old Trafford last month.

With Santos making sense as a target on the pitch as much as on paper, it is easy to see why United were so keen to strike a deal this week. The fact that this enthusiasm is matched by the player is just further evidence of an astute piece of business in M16.

Featured image Shaun Botterill via Getty Images

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