Chelsea Set to Loan £17m Signing Deivid Washington Back to Santos

Young Striker to Gain First-Team Experience in Brazil

• Deivid Washington returns to boyhood club Santos on loan
• Chelsea struggles with striker injuries but still lets him leave
• Neymar’s presence at Santos could boost Washington’s development

Chelsea have reportedly agreed to loan Deivid Washington back to Santos for the 2025 season, allowing the Brazilian teenager to gain much-needed first-team experience. Despite the Blues’ ongoing striker crisis, the 19-year-old forward has struggled to break into the first-team squad, prompting the club to sanction his temporary departure.

Chelsea’s Plan for Deivid Washington

Lack of First-Team Opportunities at Stamford Bridge

Washington joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 in a deal worth up to £17m but has played only a handful of minutes in senior competitions. Under Mauricio Pochettino, he made just three brief substitute appearances, while new head coach Enzo Maresca has barely included him in matchday squads.

Why Chelsea Are Letting Him Go Despite Striker Shortage

Chelsea are currently without Marc Guiu and Nicolas Jackson, both sidelined with muscular injuries until at least April. However, Washington remains low in the pecking order, with the club opting to develop him through a loan move rather than rushing him into first-team action.

Loan Deal Details

According to The Athletic, the loan agreement with Santos includes a break clause that allows Chelsea to recall Washington during the European summer transfer window. Santos will cover the player’s full salary, but no loan fee is involved.

Washington to Play Alongside Neymar at Santos

A Dream Come True for the Young Forward

Beyond gaining regular minutes, Washington will also team up with Neymar, who recently made an emotional return to Santos after a tough spell at Al Hilal. The 19-year-old forward has long idolized Neymar, and their partnership could help accelerate his development.

Neymar’s Influence on Washington’s Growth

Neymar returned to Santos in January, stating that he wanted to “rediscover soccer and joy.” Playing alongside a rising talent like Washington could provide mutual benefits—Neymar can mentor the youngster, while Washington can learn from one of Brazil’s all-time greats.

Will This Loan Move Benefit Chelsea?

While Chelsea’s short-term striker options remain limited, this loan deal prioritizes Washington’s long-term development. If he impresses at Santos, could he return as a valuable first-team option for Chelsea next season?

What do you think—should Chelsea have kept Washington to cover their striker crisis, or is this the right move for his future? Share your thoughts in the comments!