Arsenal plot surprise move for Chelsea’s Brazilian midfielder ahead of summer

Gidibam Web1 week ago

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Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal are reportedly exploring a shock move for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, despite the Brazilian starlet having yet to make a senior appearance for the Blues.

The 21-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama, has spent the season on loan at Ligue 1 side Strasbourg—Chelsea’s sister club under the BlueCo ownership group. His standout performances in France, where he has netted nine goals in 31 league games, have not gone unnoticed, drawing interest from several top European clubs.

According to Le10 Sport, both Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are working behind the scenes to secure the versatile midfielder this summer. New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is said to be keen on Santos, viewing the Brazilian as one of several potential signings as the Gunners gear up for a busy transfer window.

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Despite Chelsea having no stated intention to part ways with Santos, the Stamford Bridge outfit could face difficulties in convincing the player of a viable first-team pathway. With the likes of Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia ahead of him in the midfield pecking order, Santos may find opportunities limited under new head coach Enzo Maresca.

***Andrey Santos is currently on loan at Strasbourg (Image credit: Getty Images)***

Maresca, when asked last month about Santos’ future, gave little away. “We know that Andrey is doing well,” he said. “But right now, we are just focused on finishing this season. Once that’s done, we’ll start to think about next season.”

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Santos himself has also expressed uncertainty about what lies ahead. Speaking recently, he said: “I don’t think a specific decision has been made. No one has come to talk to me directly. Everything is in the hands of the club and my agents.”

Arsenal, meanwhile, are expected to be proactive in the market as they look to strengthen their squad after another season that may end just short of Premier League glory. Mikel Arteta’s side have emerged as consistent title contenders, but a third consecutive second-place finish is on the cards unless results go their way on the final day.

Berta, who joined the Gunners after a successful stint at Atlético Madrid, is believed to be prioritising key additions across multiple positions, including a new striker and a winger. The potential signing of Santos would provide added midfield depth and versatility as Arsenal aim to mount another serious title challenge next season.