A return to Vasco da Gama could be on for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos.

Signed in January from Vasco, Santos has been denied a UK work permit.

Talks with Palmeiras about a loan return to Brazil fell through last week, but Vasco has now emerged as an option.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports: "Chelsea and Vasco da Gama are closing in on agreement for Andrey Santos loan after the deal collapsed with Palmeiras, it's almost done.

"Vasco accepts Chelsea key condition for Andrey to play the U20 World Cup — he will return to London in July.

"Medicals will take place soon."