'I immediately declined' - Chelsea ace eyed by Arsenal reveals reveals why he passed on summer move with 2026 World Cup in mind

Chelsea man Andrey Santos has revealed that his goal to play for Brazil in the 2026 World Cup was a big factor in why he snubbed a Stamford Bridge exit this summer. Reports suggested that Arsenal were also interested in the 21-year-old but he was happy to stay with Enzo Maresca's side, rather than head to the Middle East.

He told Trivela, via The Mirror: "The offer [from Saudi] did arrive, but I immediately declined because of my dream and main goal, which is the World Cup. I know that being at Chelsea and in the Premier League gives me better chances than in Saudi Arabia. That was the main factor in my response to them.”

Santos joined Chelsea from Vasco da Gama in January 2023 but it was not until this summer's Club World Cup that he finally made a first-team appearance for them. He has since made three appearances for the Blues this season, with the youngster finally having lift off at the west London outfit.

Santos, who has two caps for Brazil, will hope to ramp up his game time at Chelsea for the season ahead. After a tough spell on loan at Nottingham Forest, before shining on loan at Strasbourg, it seems the Brazilian is keen to kick on this term.