Reports suggest that Chelsea is set to trigger a clause to cut short Andrey Santos’ loan deal at Nottingham Forest in January.
The Brazilian player had been loaned out to Nottingham Forest from Chelsea during the summer transfer window after his acquisition from Vasco da Gama earlier in the year. However, his loan spell hasn’t unfolded as anticipated.
Despite the agreement between the clubs, which includes financial penalties for Nottingham Forest if Santos isn’t utilized when available, the player has only made two appearances under Steve Cooper’s management.
Recent speculations have hinted at Chelsea considering Santos’ recall in January. Multiple sources like the Evening Standard and The Athletic are now confirming this possibility.
Although Chelsea hasn’t officially informed Nottingham Forest about their intentions yet, such a decision wouldn’t be entirely unexpected.
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has also invested in Strasbourg, potentially making it a more fitting destination for a player they seek to develop.
However, for Santos to join Strasbourg, Chelsea would need to annul another ongoing loan deal, as they’ve already reached their limit on the number of players they can loan to foreign clubs. The report doesn’t specify which existing loan arrangement Chelsea might terminate to facilitate Santos’ move to Strasbourg.
Another Brazilian player, Angelo Gabriel, is currently on loan at Strasbourg from Chelsea, having been signed by the club in the summer.
Despite Chelsea having Santos under contract until 2030, they have ample time to relocate him if they feel he isn’t ready to contribute to their team presently.
Although Santos featured in some pre-season friendlies under Mauricio Pochettino before his loan to Nottingham Forest, the chances of him staying with Chelsea at this point appeared slim.
Considering his limited opportunities at Nottingham Forest, moving back might turn out to be a more suitable option for Santos. Now, he is likely hoping to secure a move elsewhere that will offer him more consistent playing time in the second half of the season.