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

A Chelsea player has revealed why he rejected a Saudi Pro League transfer, with Arsenal also reportedly keeping tabs on the midfielder.

• Chelsea man rejects Saudi transfer
• Arsenal also linked with midfielder
• Wants Blues stay ahead of World Cup

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  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.

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  WHAT SANTOS SAID

  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.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  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.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  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.