MANCHESTER — Manchester United confirmed the signing of Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea for approximately £50m on Friday, completing one of the club's headline moves of the summer transfer window. The deal had been agreed the previous day.

Santos, 22, impressed on loan at Strasbourg before returning to Stamford Bridge, where limited opportunities in central midfield prompted Chelsea's decision to sell. The club, working within Premier League profit and sustainability rules, agreed to part with the player they signed from Vasco da Gama in 2023.

Manager Ruben Amorim had identified central midfield as a priority area during the close season. United's technical staff viewed Santos as a long-term option capable of adding energy and progression to the middle of the pitch.

Both clubs benefit from the transfer. Chelsea recorded a profit on a player developed within their system, while United secured a young international they believe can grow into a first-team regular under Amorim's structure.

Santos was expected to complete a medical and finalise contract terms before being registered ahead of United's pre-season programme. The club said further details would follow.