Chelsea’s Plan for Andrey Santos

 Chelsea has agreed to a five-year contract with Enzo Maresca, who will take over the team. Upon taking over as Chelsea's boss, Enzo Maresca will have to make decisions on the fate of a few of his players.

Last season, a number of Chelsea players, like Romelu Lukaku, David Datro Fofana, Armando Broja, and Andrey Santos, were on loan. It will be intriguing seeing what Maresca does with some of those names going forward.

Upon starting at Chelsea, one of Maresca's first tasks will be to determine Santos' destiny.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano reports that the Italian and the team will talk about it  'immediately.’

"Chelsea will make a decision on Andrey Santos' situation for the upcoming campaign with Enzo Maresca as soon as possible," Romano said, speaking about the £18 million midfield player on X. After a fantastic loan period with Patrick Vieira, Andrey is currently awaiting a club verdict.

"Decisions involving Omari Hutchinson, Andrey, and other matters will involve Maresca."

Blues now has two of the most costly acquisitions in the history of the club, midfield players Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. Romeo Lavia and Conor Gallagher are also at the club. However, there may be space in the team for another midfielder given that the later has been linked to Aston Villa and the former has had difficulty staying fit during the previous campaign.

Therefore, if Santos shows promise, it could be worthwhile for Maresca to observe him and keep him at the Bridge.

However, what happens to Gallagher, might have a significant impact. For example, it could be preferable for Santos to take out a new loan if Gallagher stays.