Andrey Santos was always going to be a signing for Chelsea’s future rather than an instant part of the starting XI.
But the 18-year-old Brazilian’s transfer has been the most transparent example yet of the post-Brexit reality for football clubs trying to bring in young talent from abroad.
The central midfielder remains without a club after his proposed loan move to Palmeiras in the Brazilian top-flight broke down. And he needs to find somewhere to ensure he can meet the FA’s work permit requirements.
