Man Utd immediately open talks for Arsenal target after Andrey Santos deal

Manchester United are accelerating summer transfer plans with another significant move after reaching an agreement to sign Chelsea star Andrey Santos.

United are on the hunt for new recruits after finishing third to qualify for next season's Champions League, with midfield a huge priority following on from the departure of Casemiro on a free transfer.

The Red Devils wrapped up a £35 million move for Atlanta's Ederson earlier in the window and the deal is now only awaiting the second part of his medical.

But after Manuel Ugarte suffered a serious knee injury playing for Uruguay at the World Cup - as well as Mateus Fernandes choosing Spurs United are now looking for further reinforcements in midfield.

On Wednesday, it was reported by David Ornstein of The Athletic that United had reached an agreement to sign compatriot Santos for a fee which looks set to total £50 million.

Personal terms have been agreed and Chelsea, who will have a 10 per cent sell-on clause, have given permission for Santos to undergo a medical.

By the time the deal is completed, United could well have another Brazilian midfielder in the door if recent reports are accurate.

According to Brazilian newspaper O Dia, via Sport Witness, United have opened talks over the potential signing of Danilo Santos.

READ MORE: Why Ederson's transfer to Manchester United still hasn't been made official

Arsenal have also been credited with interest in the Botafogo man, who was part of Brazil's World Cup squad but only managed 44 minutes and did not make a single start.

United have kicked off discussions with Botafogo, who need to make a major sale this summer due to their financial situation.

Botafogo had hoped that Danilo's stock would increase at the World Cup and they set a valuation of £34 million.

A lack of game-time has impacted their hopes of getting a sizeable fee for Danilo and he could be available for slightly cheaper.

His former club Palmeiras are also said to hold interest in Danilo and could be an option if United and Arsenal do not pursue a move.

The 25-year-old has experience playing in Europe after a spell in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest, who signed him for a fee of £16 million in January 2023.

Danilo played 62 times for Forest but endured a lengthy stint on the sidelines after suffering a broken leg just eight minutes into the first game of the 2024/25 campaign.

Upon return to fitness, he headed back to Brazil with Botafogo in July 2025 and scored 11 goals from midfield in 41 appearances.

Fabrizio Romano gives update on Ederson move after delay

United's first signing of the summer has still not been confirmed by the club despite it appearing as though the Ederson deal was as good as done.

The first part of his medical took place in New York but a lack of movement prompted some concerns from United fans.

However, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the delay is normal and a second medical assessment will take place before United give the deal the complete green light.

He wrote: "Ederson second part of medical will take place this week in England: Man United want guarantees before signing off the deal with Atalanta.

"All set for €45m since one month ago but waiting on extra medical check next.”