Chelsea have confirmed that Andrey Santos has completed a permanent transfer to Manchester United.
The Brazil international leaves Stamford Bridge three years after joining from Vasco da Gama in January 2023.
Chelsea’s official announcement confirmed Santos’ departure, although the club did not disclose the transfer fee.
United will reportedly pay £48m plus another £2m in add-ons. Chelsea are also understood to have retained a 10 per cent sell-on clause.
Santos has signed a contract at Old Trafford until June 2031, with the option of another season.
Chelsea make major return on Santos investment
Santos arrived from Vasco for a reported fee of around £10m and leaves after making 47 senior appearances for Chelsea.
His route to the first team included loan spells with Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg.
The midfielder established himself in France during an 18-month spell with Strasbourg, helping the club qualify for Europe and earning Ligue 1 Young Player of the Month recognition.
Santos returned to Chelsea in 2025 and formed part of the squad which won the Club World Cup. He then made 43 appearances during his final season at Stamford Bridge.
ReadChelsea previously examined how the £50m Santos sale reflects Chelsea’s willingness to trade valuable young players.
The deal generates a considerable profit, but Chelsea are also allowing a promising 22-year-old to join a Premier League rival.
Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández remained ahead of Santos in the midfield hierarchy, while the Brazilian wanted a clearer route to regular starts.
His departure gives Xabi Alonso one fewer midfield option before his first season. Chelsea’s return on their initial investment, though, explains why the club approved the permanent move.
