Manchester United add “talented” Chelsea star to midfield shortlist

Chelsea's Malo Gusto and Andrey Santos. (Reuters/Kyle Ross)

Manchester United’s 2025/26 campaign has been a mixed bag so far.

While a slight uptick in form has seen the Red Devils climb to ninth in the Premier League, there is still a long way to go to reach the standards expected at Old Trafford.

Midfield has been a particular concern.

Casemiro’s age and declining influence, Manuel Ugarte’s struggles, and Kobbie Mainoo not being fully trusted have left Ruben Amorim searching for reinforcements.

The Portuguese manager is now said to have compiled a six-man shortlist to bolster the squad next summer — and it includes a familiar face to Premier League fans.

According to talkSPORT, Chelsea’s Andrey Santos is among the midfielders on Manchester United’s radar for 2026. The 21-year-old Brazilian has impressed with his versatility, having played as a number six, eight, and even a ten since returning from a loan spell at Strasbourg.

Santos has made nine appearances across all competitions for Chelsea this season, starting three times under Enzo Maresca.

While he remains a key asset for the Blues, United are reportedly keeping tabs on him, along with former Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, as they look to inject pace, physicality, and creativity into their central midfield.

The report notes that United previously discussed Santos during talks that saw Alejandro Garnacho move to Chelsea for £40 million. Other clubs, including Bayern Munich and Al-Qadsiah, have also expressed interest in the Brazilian talent, though Chelsea appear determined to retain him.

Former Chelsea star Ramires is among those who would hate to see the Brazilian leave Stamford Bridge.

“Andrey Santos is a talented midfielder with great potential,” Ramires said, as quoted by Chelsea News. “I’ve seen his ability to control the game and contribute both defensively and offensively.”

“It’s important for him to keep developing his skills and adapting to the demands of the Premier League. If he continues to work hard and learn from experienced players, I believe he can become a key asset for Chelsea.”

For Manchester United, though adding a player like Santos could help refresh a midfield that has lacked energy and consistency, while also planning for the long-term future of the squad.

Barnaby Lane is a highly experienced sports writer who has written for The Times, FourFourTwo Magazine, Sports Illustrated, TalkSPORT, and Business Insider.

Over the years, he's had the pleasure of interviewing some of the biggest names in world sport, including Usain Bolt, Rafael Nadal, Christian Pulisic, and more.