Manchester United agree 50 million pound deal to sign Andrey Santos
Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea to sign midfielder Andrey Santos in a deal valued at £50 million. The player is expected to undergo a medical examination to finalize the transfer.
Manchester United have reached an agreement with Chelsea to secure the services of midfielder Andrey Santos in a deal valued at £50 million. The move, which represents a significant investment in the Old Trafford midfield, includes an initial payment of £48 million with an additional £2 million structured as performance-related add-ons. As of Thursday, 9 July 2026, the player is expected to undergo a medical examination to finalize the transfer.
The acquisition of Santos follows an active period for the club's recruitment team, although their pursuit of other targets has met with varying success. While the club successfully secured a deal for Santos, they have faced a setback in their interest regarding Aurelien Tchouameni. Reports indicate that the France international has opted to extend his tenure at Real Madrid, effectively ending Manchester United's hopes of signing him this summer. Additionally, the club continues to monitor the market for other options, maintaining exploratory talks with West Ham United regarding winger Crysencio Summerville, though internal priorities remain focused on reinforcing central midfield positions.
Media additions
The Premier League remains in a state of flux as multiple clubs navigate the summer window. Across London, Arsenal have bolstered their goalkeeping ranks by signing Illan Meslier on a free transfer. The 26-year-old goalkeeper, who departed Leeds United following the conclusion of his contract, underwent a medical at London Colney before formalizing his move. Meslier joins as third-choice cover behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga, a move that is expected to facilitate a loan spell for Arsenal's young prospect Tommy Setford.
"I’m extremely happy. It's a great day for me because I have just joined the champions. For me, Arsenal is the biggest club in England. I'm very happy and very proud to join Arsenal. I cannot wait to show the love that I've got for this badge, and I cannot wait to win trophies with this team, becuase this is a club that needs to lift trophies again and again."
Illan Meslier, Goalkeeper, via Sky Sports
Arsenal's transfer activity is not limited to depth signings. The club is reportedly preparing a renewed approach for Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazilian midfielder has indicated a desire to depart St James' Park. Arsenal are weighing a move that could approach £60 million, seeking to bolster their midfield options alongside other potential targets, including Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. Former Arsenal defender Nacho Monreal has publicly advised the club to continue pursuing top-tier talent, specifically mentioning Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Bradley Barcola as ideal candidates to strengthen the left wing.
The following table outlines the status of key Premier League midfield and goalkeeping activity as of 9 July 2026:
| Player | Moving To | Transfer Type |
|---|---|---|
| Andrey Santos | Manchester United | £50m Permanent |
| Illan Meslier | Arsenal | Free Transfer |
Elsewhere in the league, Tottenham Hotspur have continued their heavy spending, while Liverpool are reportedly assessing the market for offensive reinforcements. The landscape remains competitive, with clubs adjusting to recent international developments. Notably, the United States Soccer Federation confirmed that ongoing discussions with Mauricio Pochettino regarding his future with the national team would continue following the tournament.
What to watch next:
- The official confirmation of Andrey Santos’s medical results and contract signing at Old Trafford.
- Potential developments regarding Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future at Arsenal, which may impact the squad hierarchy for goalkeepers.
- Updates on Newcastle United’s position on Bruno Guimaraes, specifically regarding Arsenal’s anticipated formal bid.
- Clarity on Manchester United’s next steps regarding Crysencio Summerville and other potential midfield recruits.
As the window progresses, the focus for Manchester United will likely shift toward integrating their new midfield addition, while Arsenal’s continued interest in high-profile targets suggests their activity is far from concluded. Further details regarding these and other pending deals are expected in the coming days as clubs finalize their preparations for the upcoming season.
