Graham Potter says Chelsea are evaluating the options available to Andrey Santos amid reports the Brazilian has again had his UK work permit application turned down.
Chelsea completed a deal worth £16million to bring Santos to Stamford Bridge last month 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.
A work permit application was submitted for the 18-year-old in January by Chelsea but Santos missed out as a “special talent” by a single point having only played in the second division of Brazilian football last season. It was hoped his performances at the Under-20 South American Championship would help him over the threshold.
READ MORE: Graham Potter reveals stance on Mason Mount contract as Chelsea handed double injury boost
Potter was asked today for the latest on the Brazilian by football.london at his pre-match press conference. The Chelsea head coach replied: "Santos is still in the same place. We're looking at what the options are for him."
News then emerged – initially via Brazilian journalist Lucas Pedrosa – that Santos' second "special talent" work permit application had also proved unsuccessful by a single point. The reported reason is the teenager could not be classed as indispensable to Chelsea given the number of midfield options, including Enzo Fernandez and Denis Zakaria, available to Potter.
Chelsea were always prepared to loan Santos out if he was unable to gain a work permit and several clubs in Brazil who compete in the Copa Libertadores, the South American equivalent of the Champions League, are prepared to take him on loan until at least the summer.
READ NEXT :
Four things learned as Karim Adeyemi puts pressure on Graham Potter's major Chelsea decision
Ben Chilwell delivers brutal verdict on new Chelsea signings after Borussia Dortmund defeat
What floored Enzo Fernandez in Chelsea defeat as Graham Potter reaches Thomas Tuchel conclusion
Graham Potter provides update on Ben Chilwell after Chelsea substitution vs Borussia Dortmund
What Thiago Silva did to protect Enzo Fernandez amid 'disrespect' after Chelsea defeat
