We saw a number of players leave Chelsea this summer, quite a few of them in big-money moves. But it looks like there are a few others who could have been on their way out as well, as there had been substantial offers made for them. That is only natural when you have a squad full of the top rising talents from around the globe.
Andrey Santos is someone has high expectations surrounding him at this point in time. After an excellent loan campaign at Strasbourg, during which he was one of the best midfielders in Ligue 1, he has been brought into the first-team fold at Chelsea. But a move to the Saudi Pro League was on the cards for the Brazilian international.
As reported by UOL, Al-Qadsiah made an offer of €70 million to Chelsea for Santos. That even opened negotiations.
Santos is believed to have turned the opportunity down though, despite being offered a salary five times what he currently receives. His priority right now is to stay in the Premier League.
Saudi club made €70m bid for Chelsea player and opened negotiations
In the past, Chelsea have seen players in their prime leave for lucrative offers outside of Europe. One name that comes to mind immediately in that regard is Oscar, a fellow Brazilian international, who moved to China when he could have still played at the European level for many more years.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for Santos. The Saudi transfer window is still open and it would not be a surprise if they came back with a bigger offer.
That being said, this might not be the time for Chelsea to consider Santos' exit. With Romeo Lavia continuing to deal with injury problems, the Brazilian could have a big role to play as the cover midfielder this season.