Chelsea’s next steps are clear as Blues make Andrey Santos decision ahead of next season

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Many Chelsea fans are excited about the prospect of one of their talented youngsters being a part of the first team squad at Stamford Bridge very soon.

Andrey Santos has spent the last two seasons out on loan, with his most successful spell being this campaign at Strasbourg.

The Brazilian has added goals to his already well-defined game, establishing himself amongst the best young midfielders in the world.

It has previously been reported that Chelsea are planning to utilise Santos as soon as next season, with Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez no doubt delighted at another high-quality midfielder to share their minutes with.

However, the Mail Online have claimed that no decision has been made yet between the two BlueCo clubs over where he will play his football, with there being the risk that both sides are playing in the same competition in Europe next season.

Chelsea must anger Strasbourg and keep Andrey Santos

UEFA rules state there can be no player trading between clubs who play in the same European competition under the same ownership, and this would impact Chelsea should they qualify for the same level of competition as Strasbourg.

Santos has been the standout loanee of the project so far, and the decision should be clear as far as the Blues are concerned with the youngster.

Given the injury problems that Romeo Lavia has continued to suffer since Enzo Maresca has been in charge, the boss has been afforded very few opportunities to rest them this season.

The Italian will be desperate for a regularly available midfielder to be added to his ranks, and bringing Santos in for next season should be the first piece of business completed at the end of the season.

European interest in Santos

It seems Santos’ impressive performances have not gone unnoticed by some of Chelsea’s European rivals this season.

Santos is on the radar of PSG and AC Milan if the Blues do not decide to give him the opportunity he feels he deserves next season.

People close to the player believe Santos wants instant chances at Stamford Bridge, and this could face more competition when Dario Essugo joins the club after being signed from Sporting Lisbon.