Chelsea reject £45m offer from West Ham for Andrey Santos as Maresca blocks exit
Chelsea have rejected a £45 million bid from West Ham for Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos, making it clear that the 21-year-old is not for sale this transfer window. Manager Enzo Maresca reportedly told the club’s board that Santos is a key part of his plans for the 2025/26 season and will remain at Stamford Bridge.
Blues see long-term value in the Brazilian
The decision reflects Chelsea’s confidence in the youngster, who has impressed with consistent displays in preseason friendlies against AC Milan and Bayer Leverkusen. His strong loan spell at Strasbourg in 2023/24 also elevated his status, as he helped the French side secure qualification for the UEFA Conference League.
Chelsea are convinced that Santos’s market value currently listed at €35 million by Transfermarkt will continue to rise. The midfielder is under contract until June 2030, giving the club long-term security and leverage.
From Vasco standout to Chelsea’s midfield future
Santos first made headlines in Brazil with Vasco da Gama, where he played a pivotal role in the club’s 2022 promotion campaign, scoring eight goals in 38 matches. His performances quickly established him as one of the most promising young players in South America, prompting Chelsea to invest around £18 million in his transfer in 2023.
After a brief and challenging stint at Nottingham Forest, Santos flourished on loan at Strasbourg, becoming a regular starter and earning repeated call-ups to Brazil’s U-20 national team. His growth was further highlighted during the Club World Cup, where he started against Palmeiras and featured in the final against PSG, leaving a strong impression on both teammates and coaching staff.
Maresca makes stance clear
Chelsea’s message is now firm: Santos will play a role in the first team this season. Maresca has been vocal in his belief that the Brazilian can develop into one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders, and the club’s rejection of West Ham’s offer underscores that commitment.
For West Ham, the rejection means looking elsewhere to strengthen their midfield, while Chelsea continue to focus on nurturing one of Brazil’s brightest young talents.
