Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos could re-join Vasco de Gama on loan for the rest of the season.
The Brazilian under-20 international only joined the Premier League side from Vasco in January, but they were unable to secure a work permit for him having subsequently signed several other midfielders.
Appeals for an exception to be made as he is a rare talent were rejected.
He had been linked with a move to another Brazilian side Palmeiras, but talks over a loan move to them have subsequently collapsed.
They could face potentially face competition for a player who was one of the stars of Brazil’s win the Under-20 World Cup, with MLS side Los Angeles FC among those reported to be tracking his situation.
Chelsea will be hoping that Santos’ situation can be resolved so that he is able to join the side for pre-season training in the summer ahead of the next campaign.
