‘See you soon’ – Chelsea midfielder seals three-month loan switch after Stamford Bridge exit confirmed

Andrey Santos’ return to Vasco da Gama on loan has been confirmed after the Chelsea midfielder encountered problems trying to obtain his work permit.

The 18-year-old joined Chelsea last month from Vasco on a long-term contract after a deal up to £18 million was agreed with the Brazilian side.

“It’s a very big opportunity for me,” Santos said in January. “This is a big club playing in big competitions like the Premier League so I am very excited.

Santos jetted off to Colombia for the U20 South American Championships and captained his country to glory, finishing as the competition’s joint-top goalscorer and Player of the Tournament.

Chelsea had hope of Santos being able to secure a work permit, however the teenager missed out by one point and an alternative was sought out.

Despite strong interest from Palmeiras, they were unable to agree to Chelsea’s terms and Vasco managed to strike an agreement with the Blues to reunite with Santos until the summer.

Santos was spotted in the stands for their win over Boavista and the temporary switch back to Brazil has now been confirmed.

Following the confirmation, Santos sent Chelsea fans a message, penning on Twitter: “See you soon.”

The midfielder will return to Chelsea in the summer after going to the U20 World Cup with Brazil.

Chelsea want to take a look at the youngster during pre-season with a view to potentially including him in their squad for the 2023/24 campaign.