Andrey Santos
Chelsea’s midfield planning is again under scrutiny, with Andrey Santos attracting attention during a busy week of European fixtures in London.
This comes not long after the same player was linked with a move to Manchester United.
Chelsea have invested heavily in midfield. Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia all arrived for major fees, and minutes for their competitors are difficult to secure. Even Reece James is being tested in midfield by Liam Rosenior recently.
That reality has shaped how Chelsea manage younger players. And Santos is a clear example of that dynamic.
But despite limited opportunities, the Brazilian has quietly become one of the most effective defensive midfielders in the squad when he plays.
According to FootyStats, he averages 2.60 tackles and 1.58 interceptions per 90 minutes. Those numbers place him among the stronger performers in his role.
He is also active in duels, with 5.75 ground duels won per 90. In addition, he contributes with blocks and recoveries, while avoiding mistakes.
In possession, he also remains reliable. Santos has completed 556 of 620 passes this season, with an 89.7% completion rate. That consistency allows Chelsea to maintain control in midfield phases.
That blend of defensive intensity and composure on the ball makes him one of the more complete profiles available. Still, it has not translated into sustained minutes.
That situation has started to draw attention. Manchester United have recently been linked with Andrey Santos as they look for younger midfield profiles. The interest highlights both his ceiling and the uncertainty around his role at Stamford Bridge.
Inter join the queue after London scouting trip
That context makes the latest development more relevant. According to FC Inter News, Inter Milan directors Piero Ausilio and Dario Baccin were in London during this week’s Champions League fixtures. They attended Chelsea’s clash with Paris Saint-Germain and used the opportunity to monitor players.
Santos was among those observed closely. He started the match and is described as a profile Inter appreciate, although still at an early stage of interest.
Their next move will depend on internal planning. It will also hinge on Chelsea’s stance, given their crowded midfield and flexible approach to young players.
A profile that does not stay unnoticed for long
Chelsea may not be actively pushing Santos towards the exit, but situations like this tend to evolve quickly.
When a midfielder delivers at both ends of the pitch, interest builds naturally. Inter’s presence in London adds weight to that. The Manchester United links reinforce it further.
The player himself says he is happy in London for now. But at the same time, Chelsea’s squad build continues to create internal competition that is difficult to resolve quickly.
Santos is right in the middle of that equation. If his role does not grow, others will look to take advantage. And if his performances continue at this level, it becomes harder to justify keeping him on the margins.
For now, Chelsea control the situation. But the balance between development and opportunity is starting to attract more eyes than before.
Manchester United and Inter Milan both being interested says a lot of Andrey Santos and his development.
🇦🇷 Mateo Del Blanco | Player “will be bought by Chelsea”
➡️ Confidence in Argentina of transfer soon
🇫🇷 Would then be sent to Strasbourg
🔁 Could be a case of Valentin Barco moving to Chelsea and Del Blanco replacing him in Francehttps://t.co/aduwJ75hUj #cfc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) March 20, 2026