Alejandro Garnacho Transfer Saga: Chelsea Reject Manchester United’s Santos Approach as Deadline Looms

Manchester United’s summer transfer window is approaching its climax, and Alejandro Garnacho looks increasingly likely to leave Old Trafford. The Argentine winger, once tipped as a future face of the Red Devils, is now on the brink of joining Chelsea after falling out of favour under manager Rúben Amorim.

Garnacho’s fall from grace began when Amorim took charge. The winger no longer had a natural role in the first team, and tensions escalated after he publicly criticized the manager following United’s Europa League final defeat. In response, Amorim exiled Garnacho alongside Antony, Tyrell Malacia, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford — a clear message that discipline and squad harmony come first at the club.

Chelsea Reject United’s Swap Proposal

Manchester United have reportedly held negotiations with Chelsea over Garnacho, exploring the possibility of a swap deal involving young Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos According to Ben Jacobs. Santos, 21, impressed during his debut for Chelsea in the Club World Cup, earning praise for his physical presence and technical ability.

🚨 Andrey Santos was brought up in discussions for Alejandro Garnacho. Chelsea don’t want to sell. @JacobsBen, @UnitedStandMUFC] pic.twitter.com/SMU4cSRGlL

— The United Stand (@UnitedStandMUFC) August 21, 2025

United were keen to use Santos as part of the Garnacho deal, seeing him as a potential solution to the ongoing midfield issues that have plagued the squad. Santos could have been an alternative to Carlos Baleba, who United had targeted from Brighton but failed to sign.

However, Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, rejected the proposal outright. Despite having an abundance of midfield options, the Blues are unwilling to let Santos leave, leaving United to find other ways to strengthen their central areas before the transfer window closes.

Midfield Challenges Remain

United’s midfield remains a major concern. Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte have struggled to establish themselves as reliable defensive pivots, while Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo compete for the other spot in the double pivot. Missing out on Baleba has only added to the pressure, leaving Amorim with limited options in the heart of the park.

With so many sales required before the window closes, United may need to turn to their academy to plug gaps. Sekou Kone, recently sidelined after suffering an eye injury in the National League Cup against Tamworth, is next in line to make an impact. If he recovers fully and maintains his form, he could feature in the early rounds of the Carabao Cup, and potentially earn first-team minutes if he impresses.

The Window Winds Down

Garnacho’s potential exit marks the end of a chapter at Old Trafford. Once seen as a symbol of hope, the winger is now poised to join Chelsea, leaving fans to reflect on what might have been. Meanwhile, Jason Wilcox and Amorim must juggle player sales, navigate the tricky final days of the transfer window, and ensure that United’s squad is balanced and competitive for the Premier League season ahead.

With just over a week remaining, every transfer decision carries extra weight. United need to act fast to bring in reinforcements and stabilize the squad, while avoiding mistakes that could hamper their campaign before it even begins. Garnacho’s likely move to Chelsea is just one piece of the puzzle — but it highlights the challenges facing United as they strive to rebuild under Amorim.