Chelsea fans have received a major boost ahead of the 2025/26 season, with confirmation that 21-year-old Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos will return to Stamford Bridge this summer following a successful loan spell at RC Strasbourg Alsace.

Santos, who joined Strasbourg on loan on February 1st, 2024, initially until the end of that season, saw his stay extended for the 2024/25 campaign. In his first full season in European football, the dynamic midfielder made a significant impact, scoring 10 goals and providing 3 assists in 32 Ligue 1 appearances — a standout performance that highlights his growing influence on the pitch.

The young Brazilian took to Instagram to bid an emotional farewell to the French club and its supporters. In a heartfelt message, Santos wrote:

“It is difficult to start this text without being moved. Today, I say goodbye with my head held high, to a club that I inexplicably fell in love with, and for which I gave everything from beginning to end.

“Since my first day I have always been very well received by everyone, both by the players/staff and by the Strasbourg fans and supporters.

“I had the privilege of being captain, and here I did my first full season in Europe, and with many goals.

“Here was born the greatest love of my life, the greatest gift that God gave me, which is my son, here my family and I were very happy and we will be eternally grateful for all the love and affection of all of you.

“I’d like to thank everyone for every moment I spent together. I will miss every game at the Stade de la Meinau. But I will always carry you in my heart and I will never forget you, because one day I will come back.”

With his development accelerating in France, Chelsea fans can now look forward to seeing Santos in blue next season. His return adds depth and attacking flair to Chelsea’s midfield options, and after captaining Strasbourg and delivering key performances, Santos appears ready to make his mark in the Premier League.

The Samba star is back — and Stamford Bridge awaits.