United leap ahead of European heavyweights in race for 21-yo midfield beast as huge contract detail emerges – report

Manchester United and Juventus are reportedly the two clubs battling it out for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, as a clear frontrunner emerges in the race. United want Santos United are believed to be long-term admirers of Santos, who enjoyed a superb loan spell at Strasbourg last season before coming back to Chelsea. When United and Chelsea were in talks for Alejandro Garnacho last summer, Santos’ name popped up as a potential makeweight in the deal. However, nothing materialised and the Brazilian ultimately remained at Stamford Bridge. Although his role under Liam Rosenior has expanded, doubts over his long-term future persist. A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United are still keeping tabs on Santos. Chelsea would be inclined to let him go if they sign a midfielder. United are expected to prioritise strengthening their midfield in the upcoming window, with as many as two top-class signings on the agenda. Santos could be one of them. Now, Brazilian outlet NT Vascaínos say that Santos departing Chelsea is a genuine possibility. They then name United as the favourites to land his signature ahead of Juventus. Santos update According to NT Vascaínos, “Despite being frequently used by Liam Rosenior, with whom he had his best spell at Strasbourg in France, the English club’s board does not consider the Brazilian untouchable.” “Manchester United emerges as the frontrunner to win the race for his signing. In addition to the English club, Juventus is also monitoring the situation.” “The Brazilian midfielder’s market value, according to TransferMarkt, is €40,000,000 (40 million euros).” The report adds, “It’s worth noting that Vasco da Gama is entitled to 2.5% of the total transaction value as the player’s formative club. If he is sold for the stipulated amount (€40 million), Vasco would receive around R$6 million.” CRIA PODE RENDER DINHEIRO AO VASCO Andrey Santos, meio-campista de 21 anos e cria do Vasco da Gama, desperta interesse de gigantes europeus e pode estar de saída do Chelsea na janela de verão europeia, que iniciará em junho. Apesar de estar sendo utilizado frequentemente por… pic.twitter.com/YGQjUZ1EGF — NTVASCAÍNOS (@ntvascainos) March 7, 2026 Other midfielders mentioned to be on United’s radar are Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Carlos Baleba (Brighton and Hove Albion), Sandro Tonali (Newcastle) and Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle). It remains unclear whether Santos is open to leaving Chelsea, or indeed, whether he would entertain a move to United. The Red Devils’ prospects, however, would be significantly strengthened by securing Champions League qualification. United are next in action on Sunday when they host fourth-placed Aston Villa. Feature image Eddie Keogh via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!