Chelsea Youngster Set to Stay and Fit into Maresca’s System

Chelsea youngster Andrey Santos will not be sold or loaned out this summer and is expected to be part of the first-team squad next season, according to reports.

Santos joined Chelsea in January 2023 from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama in a deal worth around £13m but spent the remainder of the campaign back on loan in Brazil.

The 20-year-old returned for pre-season and impressed during Chelsea’s tour of America, leading many to believe he might be included in the squad. However, the decision was made to loan him out to aid his development.

Santos joined Nottingham Forest on loan last summer, which seemed like a promising move to acclimate him to the Premier League.

Unfortunately, it turned out to be unproductive, as the midfielder made only two appearances before the loan was cut short in January, resulting in six months of lost development time.

Chelsea then sent Santos on loan to Strasbourg for the second half of the season. After initially starting on the bench, he quickly demonstrated his quality and became a key player for Patrick Vieira’s side.

The Brazilian made 11 appearances for the French outfit, scoring once, and was named Ligue 1 Young Player of the Month for March.

As Chelsea considers their next steps for Santos, they have several midfield options. However, if Conor Gallagher departs, it would create a vacancy in the squad. According to The Athletic, Chelsea has no plans to sell or loan Santos this summer.

“Midfielder Andrey Santos is being earmarked for first-team football next season,” the report states. “Chelsea have fielded inquiries from teams across Europe for the 20-year-old, who impressed in the second half of last season on loan at Strasbourg. However, Chelsea are not interested in selling or loaning him.”

Santos is seen as an ideal fit for Enzo Maresca’s system. His ability to play as a No. 6 or No. 8, combined with excellent ball retention skills, will be a major asset for Chelsea as they navigate additional fixtures in the Conference League.