Manchester United ‘ask’ about Chelsea midfielder during Alejandro Garnacho transfer talks

Manchester United have reportedly asked about midfielder Andrey Santos during talks with Chelsea about Alejandro Garnacho.

The 21-year-old, who was the subject of a £60million bid from Napoli in January, looks set to join the Stamford Bridge club. This summer, he informed United of his desire to explore different opportunities after being left out of the starting XI for the Europa League final against Tottenham in May, which prompted a furious reaction from the player.

Chelsea have long been interested in the Argentina international, and the Blues are now reportedly closing in on securing the deal. Personal terms with the player have been agreed, but clubs remain in negotiations.

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And now journalist Ben Jacobs has claimed that during those talks with Chelsea, United have enquired about a deal to sign Santos.

“What I can tell you is that when discussions have been ongoing for Alejandro Garnacho to Chelsea, Andrey Santos has been spoken about,” he told The United Stand, via Give Me Sport.

“I don’t think it’s going to lead anywhere, because Chelsea don’t want to sell. That’s another player, though, that Manchester United appreciate. It’s nothing more than that at this stage.”

The Reds’ hierarchy, could potentially explore other midfield options before the September 1 deadline with a deal for Carlos Baleba ruled out until next summer.

Meanwhile, Santos returned to Stamford Bridge this summer after an impressive loan spell at Strasbourg last campaign.

Whether United will sign Santos this window remains uncertain, but Enzo Maresca has already outlined his plans for the 22-year-old.

“First of all, I am very happy with Andrey and the idea that Andrey stays here with us,” the Blues boss said.

“He can play in Enzo Fernandez or Moises Caicedo’s positions for sure. He played one game in the Club World Cup against Palmeiras where he was very good as a number six. So he can play in both positions very well.”