Chelsea are expecting a busy transfer window ahead. Along with several potential signings already lined up to reinforce the squad, some players are also expected to leave. Among those set to depart, some have failed to impress with their performances this season, while others have attracted interest from top clubs after having an impressive season.
Speaking about having an impressive season, Chelsea youngster Andrey Santos, who is out on loan at Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, has enjoyed an outstanding campaign. The Brazilian midfielder has been an integral part of the French side and has found the back of the net 11 times while providing 5 assists as well in 35 matches across all competitions.
These kinds of performances are bound to get noticed and several top clubs are believed to have been keeping an eye on Santos. Earlier, it was reported that Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the midfielder. Now, city rivals Arsenal have also seemingly joined the queue.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, Arsenal are keen on signing the youngster, although they acknowledge the fact that it’s almost impossible for them to pull that off. He wrote on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea:
"Arsenal are certainly interested in Santos, but I’ve been told by the best Arsenal source that there is ‘no chance’ of them landing the Chelsea midfielder this summer."
Arsenal interested in signing in-form Chelsea midfielder
Andrey Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in early 2023 and has since been loaned out to multiple clubs. This season as well, he was sent on loan to Strasbourg, where his performances have been excellent and he was one of the best midfielders in Ligue 1.
Santos has a long-term contract with Chelsea until 2030, so despite the ongoing rumours, there’s a strong possibility that the midfielder could remain at the club for the foreseeable future. He is certainly showing enough potential to deserve a chance.
One might point out that the Blues’ midfield is already saturated with the likes of Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. However, that shouldn't prevent the midfielder from making a name for himself, especially with the growing number of matches each season and the uncertainty of injuries.
There’s no real need for Chelsea to part with the Brazilian right now. The youngster appears to have what it takes to become one of the best midfielders in the world. Having said that, the Blues have let emerging players like Mason Mount and Kai Havertz leave to join rival Premier League clubs since the change in ownership. So it shouldn’t come as a surprise if Santos follows their footstep as well.