The Blues fought off competition from a number of Europe’s elite sides to sign 18-year-old Santos, who signed his contract in England before flying back to South America for the continent’s Under-20 Championships.
Under the new work permit rules, Santos was initially ineligible for a permit because Brazil’s second-tier league was not considered strong enough.
However, his impressive performance in the tournament, which includes five goals and six assists, is expected to be enough to get him cleared after an appeal.
If signing discussions fail to progress, clubs can present their case to the FA’s exclusion panel and argue that the player in question is an attractive talent who would increase the value of the competition.
Sources have confirmed to 90 Minutes that Chelsea will consider Santos’ recent performances in their favor and allow him to return to England on a work permit.
Chelsea sold Jorginho on the last day of the transfer window and is short in midfield with injuries, but there is hope that Graham Potter can play a role in the first team Graham Potter once Santos returns.
In more positive news for Chelsea, 90min understands that talks are ongoing with academy graduate Lewis Hall over a new contract.
A midfielder by trade, Hall has spent time on the left side of Chelsea’s defense and is understood to be stepping up to the first team on a permanent basis, so the Blues are keen to reward him with a new term.
The 18-year-old’s current contract runs until 2025, but Chelsea’s plan is to tie him down for longer with a pay rise to reflect his recent development.
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