Manchester United enjoyed a remarkable revival under Michael Carrick during the 2025/26 season.
The Red Devils climbed to third in the Premier League and secured a return to the Champions League after finishing 15th the previous year.
INEOS have moved quickly to strengthen the squad ahead of the new campaign.
Youri Tielemans is now close to arriving from Aston Villa, while Karl Darlow and Cristian Orozco are also closing in on moves to Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, United were forced to move on from Ederson after the Atalanta midfielder failed to complete his medical. The club have now confirmed their biggest signing of the summer so far.
Manchester United officially announced the arrival of Andrey Santos from Chelsea.The Brazilian midfielder will sign a contract until June 2031 with the option of an additional year.
The 22-year-old arrives after establishing himself as one of Brazil’s brightest midfield talents. Santos came through the ranks at Vasco da Gama before joining Chelsea in 2023.
Loan spells followed before he enjoyed an impressive period at Strasbourg, where he captained the French side on several occasions and contributed 11 goals and five assists.
He returned to Stamford Bridge for the 2025/26 campaign and made 43 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea.
The Brazilian also recorded the highest pass completion rate and the most progressive passes per 90 minutes among Premier League midfielders aged under 22 last season.
Manchester United identified Santos as a priority target as Carrick looked to reshape his midfield ahead of the club’s return to European football.
The midfielder has now joined up with his new teammates for pre-season. Also, he could play a major role in Carrick’s plans for the 2026/27 campaign.
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