Andrey Santos, one of Chelsea’s most highly-rated young prospects, is drawing significant interest across Europe after an impressive loan spell at Strasbourg. The 20-year-old Brazilian midfielder has enjoyed a breakout campaign in Ligue 1, and sources have told Caught Offside that Arsenal, Tottenham, and Newcastle United are among the Premier League clubs exploring a move.
Despite being signed with high expectations, Santos has yet to make a first-team breakthrough at Stamford Bridge. With Enzo Maresca now set to take over as head coach, it remains unclear where Santos fits in his plans. The player himself is reportedly not fully committed to returning, and Chelsea could consider offers in the €45–50 million range.
While the Premier League trio are actively monitoring the situation, clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan are also interested in the Brazilian, who has shown maturity, athleticism, and ball-winning ability beyond his years.
Chelsea might prefer to avoid strengthening a domestic rival, but a good offer from abroad — or an irresistible bid from within England — could force their hand. The Blues could also see this as an opportunity to make a healthy profit on a player signed for just €12.5 million from Vasco da Gama.
With Thomas Partey and Jorginho expected to leave, Arsenal could use a physical, box-to-box midfielder who also offers composure in possession. Santos would be a smart long-term investment, able to rotate with or eventually replace Declan Rice or Martin Odegaard, depending on how Arteta wants to structure his midfield. His tactical discipline and pressing energy align well with the Gunners’ high-possession, high-tempo style.
Meanwhile, Santos could thrive in Ange Postecoglou’s dynamic system. Tottenham have struggled with midfield balance at times, especially when Yves Bissouma has been out of form. Santos would bring a mix of aggression, drive, and technical quality that fits Postecoglou’s high-intensity style. He’d also be a more defensively sound partner to James Maddison, allowing the Englishman more attacking freedom.
At St. James’ Park, Santos would be a natural long-term replacement for Bruno Guimaraes if the Brazilian moves on, or a key rotation option if he stays. His defensive intelligence, energy, and ability to operate in both single- and double-pivot systems make him an ideal fit for Eddie Howe, who needs depth ahead of a likely return to European competition.
Andrey Santos has shown enough in France to prove he’s ready for the next step. Whether that’s at Chelsea or elsewhere remains to be seen, but at €45-50 million, he is a calculated gamble for any club looking to build for the future. Arsenal and Newcastle seem like the best Premier League fits tactically, while a move abroad might give Chelsea more control over his eventual development. Either way, expect a bidding war, Santos is not going under the radar anymore.
