Andrey Santos to Man Utd: FPL Impact of £50m Midfield Move

Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Chelsea's young midfielder Andrey Santos in a move that could shake up both clubs' FPL prospects. With Chelsea looking to offload players to fund Xabi Alonso's rebuild, and United seeking midfield reinforcements, this transfer could provide a budget option for FPL managers if Santos secures regular minutes at Old Trafford.

By the numbers

• Position: MID

Price: £4.4m

• Availability: fully available
• This season: 47 pts, 1,247 mins, 1 goal, 0 assists, 1 clean sheet, 129 defensive-contribution (DEFCON) pts, PPG 1.7, form 0.0, xGI 2.88, owned by 0.3%
• Expected points next GW: 4.3
• 2025/26 Season: 47 pts, 1,247 mins, 1 goal, 0 assists, 1 clean sheet
• 2024/25 Season: 0 pts, 0 mins, 0 goals, 0 assists, 0 clean sheets
• 2023/24 Season: 1 pt, 7 mins, 0 goals, 0 assists, 0 clean sheets

The FPL verdict

Andrey Santos, currently priced at a tempting £4.4m, would likely join Manchester United as a squad player initially, given the existing competition in their midfield. However, The Guardian reports that United are actively rebuilding their midfield under Michael Carrick, suggesting a clearer pathway to minutes than he currently has at Chelsea, where he's behind Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández.

His FPL data this season shows 47 points from 1,247 minutes, with 1 goal and 0 assists. While not a prolific scorer, his 129 DEFCON points indicate a decent contribution defensively, which could translate to bonus points if he establishes himself. An expected points next GW of 4.3 is promising for a player at his price point, hinting at potential if given a starting role. As a differential pick, he's currently owned by only 0.3% of FPL managers, making him an excellent budget enabler if he secures consistent starts.

Under Michael Carrick, Santos could thrive in a system that values defensive solidity and progression from midfield. United's upcoming fixtures and tactical setup will be crucial in determining his FPL value. If he can break into the starting XI, his low price combined with his defensive contributions could make him a valuable bench option or even a surprise starter, freeing up funds for premium assets elsewhere in your squad.