Chelsea complete £18m signing of teenage midfielder Andrey Santos

Chelsea have completed the signing of Vasco Da Gama midfielder Andrey Santos for £18million, as they continue to build towards the future.

The 18-year-old wonderkid has been attracting interest from numerous elite clubs such as Manchester City and Newcastle – but the Blues have won the race with his Brazilian club confirming the news.

His signature continues along the theme of building for the future under the new ownership of Todd Boehly as they’ve already completed the signings of Benoit Badiashile and Molde starlet David Datro Fofana this month.

Santos becomes the third January signing for Chelsea, having already signed defender Benoit Badiashile (pictured) from Monaco and Molde striker David Datro Fofana

Santos become the third January transfer window signing for Graham Potter’s side after completing deals for Fofana and Badiashile already in the opening week. 

Despite being just 18, Santos has been capped at U20 level by Brazil and is regarded as one of his country’s most promising midfielders.

He has already featured 38 times for Vasco Da Gama in the Brazilian second-tier, where he has scored a total of eight goals.

The 18-year-old has already featured 38 times for Vasco Da Gama in the Brazilian second-tier

His Brazilian club confirmed his £18million switch to Stamford Bridge on their club website

Vasco have said in a statement on the club’s website: ‘Vasco da Gama agreed this Friday (01/06) the permanent transfer of the athlete Andrey Santos to European football. 

‘Born in the youth ranks of Gigante da Colina, the midfielder will defend the colours of Chelsea, from England, in the coming seasons.

‘The youngster will end his first spell at the club from Sao Januario at the age of 18 with 38 appearances and eight goals.

‘In Sao Januario since 2011, Andrey Santos started his career in futsal and it didn’t take long to become the main reference of the 2004 Generation. 

Chelsea boss Graham Potter will be eager to add…