According to a report by Metro on November 11, 2026, former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp has questioned Manchester United's decision to sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea, arguing that those responsible for the transfer should face serious consequences.

Manchester United spent £50 million to bring the Brazilian midfielder to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window as part of their efforts to strengthen the midfield ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The club prioritised midfield reinforcements following Casemiro's departure and Manuel Ugarte's serious injury at the World Cup. Carlos Baleba and Youri Tielemans also arrived as Michael Carrick looked to improve his midfield options.

However, the new signings have struggled to make the expected impact, with United currently sitting in the relegation zone ahead of the international break. Santos, in particular, has managed just seven starts since joining the club.

Speaking on The Overlap Daily, Redknapp questioned whether the 22-year-old possesses the qualities required to play for a club of Manchester United's size.

He described Santos as a decent player but argued that his signing was a major recruitment mistake. Redknapp also questioned why United brought in several midfielders with similar characteristics instead of addressing their need for greater athleticism and energy.

Redknapp further suggested that the involvement of recruitment director Christopher Vivell, who previously worked with Santos at Chelsea, made the decision even harder to justify.

Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard had also expressed doubts about the transfer, insisting that Santos had yet to demonstrate the quality expected of a Manchester United midfielder.

Meanwhile, United's poor start to the season has increased uncertainty surrounding Carrick's future. Former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace him.

If appointed, Pochettino could begin his Manchester United reign with a difficult away fixture against Liverpool at Anfield after the international break.