Club are not actively seeking to replace Andre Onana but remain open to strengthening the goalkeeping department
Manchester United have shown interest in Botafogo goalkeeper John following a series of strong performances at the Club World Cup.
A United scout was in attendance to observe the player during Botafogo’s win over Paris Saint-Germain, according to Brazilian journalist Andre Hernan. However, it was John’s performance in the round-of-16 match against Palmeiras that reportedly kicked off internal discussions at Old Trafford.
Although Botafogo were knocked out of the competition, John impressed with his command of the area and shot-stopping ability, which backs up his growing reputation in South America.
United are not actively seeking to replace Andre Onana, who is expected to remain first choice next season, but the club are open to strengthening the goalkeeping department. John is among several names being considered, with Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez also on the shortlist.
John has been under contract with Botafogo since January 2024, when he joined from Real Valladolid after falling out of the starting lineup in Spain’s Segunda Division. He established himself as the club’s No1 just three months later and has been a standout performer ever since.
In 2024, he was awarded the Bola de Prata as the best goalkeeper in Brazil’s top flight and earned a spot in the Copa Libertadores Team of the Tournament, helping Botafogo win both competitions.
His agent Pedro Gutierrez confirmed earlier this year that multiple European clubs had shown interest, including Tottenham Hotspur, who recently pipped Manchester United to the Europa League trophy.
