Andrey Santos: Clear favourite between Man United and Juventus emerges for Chelsea star

Manchester United and Juventus are reportedly the two clubs battling it out for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos , as a clear frontrunner emerges in the race.

United are believed to be long-term admirers of Santos, who enjoyed a superb loan spell at Strasbourg last season before coming back to Chelsea.

When United and Chelsea were in talks for Alejandro Garnacho last summer, Santos’ name popped up as a potential makeweight in the deal. However, nothing materialised and the Brazilian ultimately remained at Stamford Bridge. Although his role under Liam Rosenior has expanded, doubts over his long-term future persist.

A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are still keeping tabs on Santos. Chelsea would be inclined to let him go if they sign a midfielder. United are expected to prioritise strengthening their midfield in the upcoming window, with as many as two top-class signings on the agenda. Santos could be one of them.

Now, Brazilian outlet NT Vascaínos say that Santos departing Chelsea is a genuine possibility. They then name United as the favourites to land his signature ahead of Juventus.

According to NT Vascaínos, “Despite being frequently used by Liam Rosenior, with whom he had his best spell at Strasbourg in France, the English club’s board does not consider the Brazilian untouchable.”

“Manchester United emerges as the frontrunner to win the race for his signing. In addition to the English club, Juventus is also monitoring the situation.”

“The Brazilian midfielder’s market value, according to TransferMarkt, is €40,000,000 (40 million euros).”

The report adds, “It’s worth noting that Vasco da Gama is entitled to 2.5% of the total transaction value as the player’s formative club. If he is sold for the stipulated amount (€40 million), Vasco would receive around R$6 million.”

– Saturday, 7 March 2026

Other midfielders mentioned to be on United’s radar are Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Carlos Baleba (Brighton and Hove Albion), Sandro Tonali (Newcastle) and Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle).

It remains unclear whether Santos is open to leaving Chelsea, or indeed, whether he would entertain a move to United. The Red Devils’ prospects, however, would be significantly strengthened by securing Champions League qualification.

United are next in action on Sunday when they host fourth-placed Aston Villa.

Feature image Eddie Keogh via Getty Images

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