Chelsea midfielder wanted on loan by two clubs as Potter has already given green light

The likes of Mykhaylo Mudryk, Enzo Fernandez and Noni Madueke were big name arrivals at Stamford Bridge who could instantly improve the side. Chelsea also signed a few players keeping in mind the future project and one of them was Brazilian midfielder, Andrey Santos.

Santos was signed from Brazilian side Vasco de Gama for a fee of around £18 million including add-ons. Signing a 18 year old youngster for £18 million, especially when he hasn’t been tested in Europe and is a raw product out of the Brazilian football factory did raise some questions over the transfer strategy. But then, the club fans got a glimpse of Santos’ talent at the U-20 South American championship where Santos was the top scorer with six goals.

The 18 year old captained the side and was excellent throughout the South American championship. His performances got the supporters excited and Chelsea were eagerly waiting for his work permit to go through. Chelsea’s first attempt to get a work permit reportedly failed. With another attempt for work permit failing, it became clear the CFC would not be able to use Santos and loaning him out would be the best solution for the youngster.

Vasco de Gama and LA Galaxy want Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos on loan

That way, his development is not hampered and Chelsea will get time in the summer to apply for a work permit again. Palmeiras were expected to sign Santos on a loan deal but the deal collapsed as the Brazilian club did not agree to two of the conditions. The Blues wanted Santos to be released for the U-20 World Cup in May-June while also have the option to call the midfielder back to Cobham in the summer.

With Palmeiras no longer in contention to bring Santos on loan, Vasco de Gama emerged as contenders to sign him on loan. Chelsea have given the green light for Santos to return to Vasco de Gama and the club has a deadline to settle the debt of the sale. The club is trying to pay the amount in installments but Santos prefers to be paid in full as they are entitled to.

According to GOAL, LA Galaxy have put an offer to sign Santos on loan. The Blues are evaluating the proposal but as things stand, the 18 year old prefers to return to Brazil rather than go to MLS.

On the grounds of work permit, going to MLS will count more in Santos getting his UK work permit. The Brazil leagues do not register with the UK work permit-point scheme so a move to Vasco might not help Santos much in getting a work permit in the summer.

Chelsea and Graham Potter have already given the green light for a return to Vasco but the proposal from LA Galaxy must also be considered given the work permit benefits it might provide to Santos.

Where will Andrey Santos go on loan?