Manchester United have received a significant boost in their search for midfield reinforcements ahead of the new season.
The Red Devils are now seriously considering a move for Chelsea ace Andrey Santos.
According to The Athletic, Chelsea would not block a move for Santos if it suited all parties.
Although United have yet to open formal negotiations, Chelsea are reportedly willing to sell the Brazilian should the right offer arrive.
Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in January 2023 before rapidly enhancing his reputation during an outstanding 18-month loan spell with Strasbourg.
The 22-year-old built on that momentum by enjoying a breakthrough campaign at Stamford Bridge, registering three goals and five assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.
The Blues have reportedly set an asking price of £50 million for the midfielder.
Man United need to accelerate their pursuit
INEOS originally identified Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes as the priority names to transform the midfield.
While Anderson’s move to Manchester City had looked inevitable for weeks, losing Fernandes to Tottenham Hotspur has dramatically increased the pressure on United.
Santos is capable of playing as a number six or a number eight. He is a talented midfielder but still has plenty of room for development.
After a serious injury to Manuel Ugarte, United head coach Michael Carrick has Kobbie Mainoo as the only available senior central midfielder in the squad.
Ederson is expected to join United from Atalanta. Signing Santos would add further depth to the midfield. However, United clearly need more.
INEOS must now move decisively if they genuinely want Santos, while ensuring they avoid paying an inflated transfer fee.
Once that situation is resolved, the club’s full attention should turn towards securing a marquee midfielder capable of transforming the starting XI.
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