Manchester United announced on Monday the signing of Brazilian midfielder André Santos from Chelsea on a contract until June 2031. According to British media reports, the initial fee was £48 million, with an additional £2 million in potential add-ons. Santos, 22, said in a video posted by the club on its official accounts: 'Honestly, since I was a child I dreamed of this moment, the history and responsibility that come with this badge are among the reasons I am here.' Santos joined Chelsea in 2023 and had loan spells at Brazilian club Vasco da Gama, Nottingham Forest, and Strasbourg before returning to Stamford Bridge for the 2025-2026 season. He made 43 appearances for Chelsea last season. His arrival fills the void left by Casemiro, who left United at the end of last season after his contract expired. He is expected to boost manager Michael Carrick's options, especially given Manuel Ugarte's knee ligament injury suffered during Uruguay's 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup, which could sideline him for a long period. Santos has played six matches for Brazil but was not included in Carlo Ancelotti's squad for the 2026 World Cup, where the five-time champions were eliminated in the round of 16.

This signing is part of Manchester United's efforts to strengthen their midfield after Casemiro's departure, relying on the young Santos' experience.

Manager Michael Carrick will rely on Santos' abilities to compensate for Ugarte's absence, amid fierce competition for Champions League qualification spots. Moreover, Brazil's early elimination from the 2026 World Cup could provide additional motivation for Santos to prove his worth with the Red Devils.