Midfielder Andrey Santos has completed a transfer to Chelsea, according to Brazilian outfit Vasco da Gama.
Santos has been heavily linked with a switch to Stamford Bridge for a number of weeks after what was a hotly-contested race for his signature.
However, it emerged over Christmas that Chelsea were the clear frontrunners to secure the services of the 18-year-old on a long-term contract.
A photo of Santos celebrating a switch to Chelsea emerged on social media, and the player himself was seen in the stands when his new side faced Manchester City on Thursday night.
As of late Friday afternoon, Chelsea had not officially confirmed a deal for Santos, nor is it known whether the prospect will begin life at the Premier League club in the senior or academy setup.
Boa sorte, Andrey Santos!
— Vasco da Gama (@VascodaGama) January 6, 2023
👉 https://t.co/e8BNlDe4lY#VascoDaGama pic.twitter.com/o5zM9z4z6w
Nevertheless, Vasco da Gama have moved to announce the transfer, a statement reading: "Vasco da Gama agreed this Friday (01/06) the permanent transfer of the athlete Andrey Santos to European football.
"Born in the youth ranks of Gigante da Colina, the midfielder will defend the colors of Chelsea, from England, in the coming seasons.
"The youngster will end his first spell at the club from Sao Januario at the age of 18 with 38 appearances and eight goals."
While a fee has not been disclosed, it has previously been claimed that Chelsea have agreed to pay £20m to Vasco da Gama, £7m of which will come in add-ons.
© Reuters
Santos is widely regarded as one of the top prospects in Brazilian football, despite spending the 2022 season competing in the second tier.
However, the teenager played a key role as Vasco da Gama regained a spot in the top flight, contributing eight goals from his 33 appearances.
Santos joins David Datro Fofana and Benoit Badiashile in signing for Chelsea since the beginning of the January transfer window.
More fresh faces are expected to follow with the club's owners looking to sign at least one of Benfica midfielder Enzo Fernandez and Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk.
Darren Plant
