Manchester United are reportedly making a strong effort to complete a deal for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos amid competition from Juventus. Man Utd are eager to agree a deal in their pursuit of a new central midfielder following the departure of Christian Eriksen. According to talkSPORT, Man Utd have added Santos to a six-man midfield transfer shortlist. Italian publication TuttoJuve states that Man Utd could submit an official offer to Chelsea in the January transfer window.

talkSPORT reported that United has identified Santos as an 'ambitious target'. The outlet also claims that United has already held talks with Chelsea over a potential deal, and that these talks took place during discussions over the sale of Alejandro Garnacho. However, transfer insider Dean Jones revealed to TEAMtalk that Chelsea has no intention of selling Santos and that United is looking at other options. Jones stated that Chelsea will not sell him and that United are not going to spend time signing someone who is not attainable.

According to a talkSPORT report from Ben Jacobs and Alex Crook, Man Utd have made Santos an ambitious target as they prepare to sign a new midfielder in 2026. United have already held talks with Chelsea over a potential move for Santos during the discussions which took Alejandro Garnacho to Stamford Bridge in the summer. Chelsea's stance is that the 21-year-old is not for sale, but United might make an attempt if they fail to acquire other midfielders. United were made aware in the summer that Santos would consider a transfer away from Chelsea if the right opportunity arose.

talkSPORT reported that United have identified Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos as an alternative, even more ambitious transfer target. The same report added that the Blues are thought to be reluctant to let the Brazilian midfielder join one of their Premier League rivals.