Andrey Santos' loan move from Chelsea to Palmeiras looks set to collapse after a key stumbling block was hit in negotiations. A second work permit application failed by a singular point under the "special talent" umbrella which forced the Blues to quickly search for an appropriate loan destination for the teenager.
Santos was one of Chelsea's first signings in January, completing a deal worth £16million to bring him to Stamford Bridge from Brazilian second-tier side Vasco da Gama. The midfielder was then given permission to represent his country at the Under-20 South American Championship, a tournament he won and finished as top scorer.
Having only played in the second division of Brazilian football last season, a first work permit application was rejected with the hope being his performances at the Under-20 South American Championship would help him over the threshold.
