Andrey Santos claims he’s got a ‘strong bond’ with £13m Chelsea player

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Chelsea’s Andrey Santos has just shared that he’s really close with one teammate in the squad at Stamford Bridge.

A large Chelsea group is currently touring the United States during their pre-season schedule, which includes 20-year-old youngster Andrey Santos. He’s featured in both friendly matches so far against Wrexham and Celtic under the watchful eye of new Blues head coach Enzo Maresca.

It’s been claimed recently by journalist Eduardo Burgo via X that Santos will get pre-season to try impress at Chelsea. Afterwards, the midfielder’s future will be decided, whether that’s staying in the senior squad or going out on loan again.

The Brazilian youngster spent the first half of last season with Nottingham Forest before joining Strasbourg. Is he now ready for a spot in Chelsea’s firs team, though?

• READ MORE: Who is Chelsea’s Andrey Santos? Age, Nationality, Position, Stats and more

Andrey Santos shares Angelo Gabriel friendship

Santos has explained that he’s got a very close connection with Angelo Gabriel, who’s a fellow youngster also in Chelsea’s pre-season squad this summer. The Brazilian talents have known each other for years after playing together in the national team.

It cost the Blues £18m (Daily Mail) to sign Santos back in January 2023. Just six months later, Chelsea signed Angelo in a £13m deal (Daily Mail).

“I came first to Chelsea. Then, when I saw Angelo was coming too, I was really happy,” Santos said via Chelsea’s official website.

“We have played together since we were 15 years old, we have a connection and a strong bond and so I was happy and looking forward to being able to play with him here at Chelsea. I’m thrilled it’s happened.”

Should Andrey Santos and Angelo Gabriel make Chelsea’s squad for the new season?

First of all, Santos has surely got his back against the wall if he wants to be with Chelsea in the 2024/25 campaign. He may actually be best served going out on loan again to develop and play regularly.

Unfortunately, the deep-lying central midfielder is competing in area of the pitch stacked with competition and talent.

As for Angelo, his route into Chelsea’s squad feels a bit more realistic. The 19-year-old right-winger should be going all out this summer to impress Maresca because the wide options look up for grabs still.