Andrey Santos believes Michael Carrick is the perfect coach to help him take the next step of his career after completing his move to Manchester United on Monday. 

Santos has signed a five-year contract with United for a reported £48m transfer fee from Chelsea, which is said to also include £2m worth of add-ons. 

The 22-year-old bolsters the Red Devils' midfield following the departure of Casemiro, while Manuel Ugarte sustained a long-term knee injury at this year's World Cup. 

During his time at Chelsea, Santos made 47 appearances across all competitions after signing from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama in 2023, before returning to the club on loan. 

He also had loan spells with Nottingham Forest and Strasbourg, but was a regular for the Blues last season under Enzo Maresca, Liam Rosenior and Calum McFarlane. 

"Everything about Manchester United is special. It is an incredible feeling to join a club that some of my biggest idols have represented," Santos told the club's website. 

"I am really excited to have the opportunity to learn from Michael Carrick. He is the perfect coach to help me take the next step in my career and push to achieve my dreams.

"Everybody told me about how ambitious the club is and the amazing environment that has been created here.

"I know just how strong the squad is, and I cannot wait to fight together to compete for the biggest trophies."

Santos is Carrick's first signing since he was appointed as the club's permanent head coach in May after overseeing a successful end to their 2025-26 campaign. 

The signing comes after it was also reported on Monday that the Red Devils are closing in on a move for Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans. 

United had also been in talks to sign Ederson from Atalanta before a deal broke down, though reports are suggesting they could revisit a potential deal later in the window. 

It is also believed that Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow is close to making the move to Old Trafford, with Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana expected to leave this summer. 

Carrick's side begin their Premier League campaign against newly-promoted Hull City on August 22 before returning home to face Ipswich Town eight days later.