It now seems like a matter of time until Palmeiras confirm the signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea. With the player unable to get a work permit for the Premier League, he’s set to stay in Brazil for a little longer.
That has been the main topic in the Brazilian rumour mill, with many people wondering if the midfielder will be able to get a starting spot at his new club.
On his Youtube channel, Palmeiras legend Edmundo talked about that issue, and claimed the Chelsea player will have to work hard to find a place there.
“He comes to a ready team. This ready team welcomes a fantastic player on the rise,” said Edmundo (via Torcedores).
“Let’s see if he will be in the starting line-up because Danilo’s departure left a hole. Gabriel Menino has grown a lot. There is a very strong trio there with Gabriel Menino, Raphael Veiga and Zé Rafael. I don’t know if Andrey arrives and wears the starting shirt. Capability he has, but I don’t know if he comes to be a starter.”
“Vasco will not play Libertadores and Sudamericana this year. He chose an assembled team, which is Palmeiras, so that he can introduce himself to Chelsea. We are sad, but it’s part of it. I don’t think the fans should be upset with Andrey. They have to be upset about the early and cheap exit. I hope one day he comes back. Our longing will continue.”
According to claims from journalist Jorge Nicola on Monday, Andrey Santos is initially being loaned to Palmeiras until December. However, in case Chelsea manage to get him a work permit in the summer, then they can cut short the spell by paying the Brazilian club €1.5m. The final issue is said to be his participation in the U-2O World Cup, as the Blues would like him to take part in the tournament.
