Romano: No loan agreement between Chelsea and Porto for Brazilian starlet

Fabrizio Romano claims there is no loan agreement with Porto and Chelsea for Andrey Santos

Fabrizio Romano claimed FC Porto are a big admirer of Andrey Santos and tried asking him for a loan move twice since January, but a loan agreement has never been reached with Chelsea.

Chelsea have yet to decide on Santo’s future, as Mauricio Pochettino wants to see him during pre-season. The 19-year-old was pictured training in Cobham yesterday as Pochettino started his Chelsea stint.

The Brazilian youngster was set to join the Blues in the winter window after a successful £16 million move, but due to work permit issues, he had to remain at the Brazilian club. Santos previously failed to receive his visa after following the FA’s application process by one point.

However, since then Santos has gained valuable points after making his debut for the Brazilian senior team and then leading the U20 Brazil side to South American Championship.

However, the Brazilian wunderkind has received his work permit for Chelsea’s pre-season tour to the United States, but the youngster could ply his trade for the Portuguese side next season if Chelsea allows the Brazilian to join the Portuguese club on loan.

Chelsea are also looking to send Italian youngster Cesare Casadei on loan, with Premier League and Serie A clubs interested in taking him on board. If that is the case, it increases Santos’ chances at playing time.

Andrey Santos has been linked with a loan move to Porto. (Photo by JUAN PABLO PINO/AFP via Getty Images)
Andrey Santos has been linked with a loan move to Porto. (Photo by JUAN PABLO PINO/AFP via Getty Images)

If Chelsea do opt to loan the Brazilian out, a Premier League club would be a better choice because he would have the chance to develop in the league and possibly be ready to play for the senior team in the not-too-distant future. Porto appear to be a solid option as well, and we have sent a player to them on loan in the past (Malang Sarr).

It seems like the preseason trip will determine whether many young players stay or are sent out on loan, but as of right now, nothing is guaranteed. It could be a chance for many youngsters to make an impression on Pochettino and possibly earn a place in the Blues’ first-team set-up next season.

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