First bid turned down in Brazil – Chelsea consider response through multi-club plan

Chelsea are weighing up a move for Santos’ left-back Souza, says fresh reports from Spain.

The update comes from AS, who focus on AC Milan’s failed attempt to sign him but also bring new clarity on Chelsea’s position through the BlueCo ownership group.

According to AS, Milan submitted an opening bid worth just under €10m, including add-ons. Santos rejected the offer and made their stance clear.

They will not negotiate below €12m. The report adds that the Brazilian club now see a January sale as a realistic scenario, which marks a shift from their earlier position.

From Chelsea’s point of view, this change matters. Chelsea, via BlueCo, are said to be reassessing whether to return with an offer. They already tried in the summer but ultimately failed.

AS explain that the group are studying a move that could again involve Strasbourg. The French side would act as an initial destination, with Souza seen as a possible replacement for Valentín Barco. This detail gives the multi-club strategy a clearer sporting purpose.

The wider market also plays a role. Barcelona were among the first to track Souza but have since fallen behind. Bayern Munich and Saudi clubs have also asked about his situation. Milan, however, remain the only club confirmed to have made a formal bid so far.

For Chelsea, the landscape has changed. What started as an early, informal approach now looks like a decision shaped by Milan’s rejected offer, a defined asking price, and a January window that is quickly taking form.

What happens next will depend on how BlueCo choose to respond.