29-year-old has been a standout performer in Brazil’s top flight and could be an experienced solution to United’s goalkeeping situation
Manchester United have stepped up efforts to sign Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor as cover for the injured Andre Onana.
Onana picked up a hamstring injury during training at Carrington earlier this week and is expected to be out for six to eight weeks, missing pre-season and likely United’s first few Premier League games of the new season. The setback means that signing a goalkeeper has risen to the top of United’s list of priorities.
Botafogo’s John has a £6m release clause and United could trigger it. The player was already under United’s watch this summer, with a scout from the Premier League side in attendance to observe the player during Botafogo’s 1-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup.
The 29-year-old has been a standout performer in Brazil’s top flight and could be an experienced solution to United’s goalkeeping situation.
In anticipation of losing their first-choice keeper, Botafogo have contacted Atletico Mineiro over the availability of Matheus Mendes, who is currently on loan at America-MG. Mendes could be recalled to switch to Botafogo if John were to complete a move to England this summer.
United have also been linked with Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, although the Argentine may be a more expensive option than John.
