Dilemma for Chelsea as player’s work permit is rejected by Premier League

Chelsea host struggling Southampton on Saturday in a game that could prove crucial for both sides. 

The Saints currently sit rock bottom of the Premier League table and are without a manager following the sacking of Nathan Jones earlier this week.

The Blues, meanwhile, have now won just two of their last 16 games across all competitions following a 1-0 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Wednesday.

Manager Graham Potter may feel that his side deserved more from the game in Germany, but a number of missed opportunities ultimately proved costly and Chelsea must now beat Dortmund at Stamford Bridge in the second leg to have any chance of progressing.

In the meantime, Potter has been dealt another blow as one of his new signings has had his work permit application rejected.

As per Fabrizio Romano, Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos has had his application rejected by the Premier League, leaving his immediate future uncertain.

Potter commented on the news during his press conference ahead of the game against Southampton, but the ex-Brighton boss offered little insight into what will happen next.

“Andrey’s still in the same place. We’re looking at what the options are for him,” he said, as per Romano.

Santos was in sensational form for Brazil at the Under-20 South American Championship

Santos, 18, signed for Chelsea from Brazilian second division side Vasco de Gama last month, but the midfielder has only recently joined up with his new teammates.

Santos spent much of the last few weeks captaining Brazil to glory at the Under-20 South American Championships.

The teenager scored six goals from midfield at the tournament, helping his side to lift the trophy.

Romano claims that a number of Brazilian side are now considering making a loan move for the youngster, as he appears unlikely to be available for Chelsea any time soon.

During his time with Vasco de Gama, Santos scored eight goals in 34 Serie B matches for the club, prompting Chelsea to pay a reported £10 million to land the midfielder last month.