United have contacted Santos’ representatives but have not submitted an official offer to Chelsea, according to the report. The Brazilian remains on their shortlist, while Newcastle United are also interested after Sandro Tonali’s move to Tottenham.
Chelsea are understood to value the 22-year-old Andrey Santos at around £50m. That figure is unlikely to appeal to United, who are expected to explore whether the asking price can be reduced before formalising their interest.
Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama and has since spent time on loan at Vasco, Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg. His development has taken him through different footballing environments, but Chelsea’s stance means United would be buying potential at a significant cost.
United’s interest reflects a squad-building problem that extends beyond one player. Former coach Rene Meulensteen believes the club also need greater experience in attack, while Nicky Butt has identified Aurelien Tchouameni as his preferred midfield target.
Butt highlighted the need for a player with “legs”, power and aggression - qualities he believes would help United compete physically and protect the defence. Tchouameni would represent a different profile from Santos, offering established top-level experience alongside defensive authority.
The attacking shortlist is similarly broad. Harry Kane has been described as an ideal but unlikely option, while Jean-Philippe Mateta offers Premier League pedigree. Crysencio Summerville is another name linked with United, although talks reportedly have not begun with West Ham or the player’s camp.
Santos’ future could also affect Chelsea’s own plans. If he leaves, the club may reportedly return to Sunderland with an improved offer for Granit Xhaka, a leading target for Xabi Alonso.
The next transfer window will reveal whether United’s initial contact develops into a formal bid - and whether Chelsea’s valuation becomes a deal-breaker.