Manchester United has officially confirmed the acquisition of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea for a reported £50 million. The 22-year-old has signed a contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until 2031, with an option for a further year's extension.
United had agreed to a £48 million deal with Chelsea, plus an additional £2 million in potential add-ons. Santos successfully completed his medical earlier this week.
This signing comes amid a busy period for the club's midfield reinforcements. Manchester United has also triggered the £35 million release clause for Youri Tielemans. The club had been seeking alternative midfield options after a £39 million agreement to sign Ederson from Atalanta fell through due to a medical issue.
Santos expressed his enthusiasm for joining Manchester United, stating, "Everything about Manchester United is special. It is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented."
He added, "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 becomes Manchester United's first confirmed signing of the current transfer window. A medical for Tielemans is understood to be scheduled in the coming days, potentially signaling his imminent arrival.