Manchester United are getting ready with an official bid for Botafogo’s John Victor
Manchester United are giving their all in the ongoing summer transfer window. The rebuilding process continues after a season to forget. The team finished 15th in the Premier League, and frustration was evident throughout Old Trafford. Ruben Amorim, the new coach, who joined mid-season in 2024/25, has already made it clear that he wants more character and solidity in every position. The club has finalised the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton and are moving forward with Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford. However, the focus is also on the goalkeeper position. The board might be aware that Andre Onana needs real pressure to perform better. Without a goalkeeper who demands a high standard, Onana may repeat mistakes.
According to Brazilian media outlet Meia Hora, United are preparing an offer for John Victor, Botafogo’s goalkeeper. His performances in the Brasileirão have caught the attention of several European clubs. What is interesting is his release clause, which is just £5.86 million. It will be an affordable signing for the Red Devils, who are looking for depth and internal competition. John Victor has proven experience and reflexes. The 29-year-old is not a marketing name, but he offers consistency between the posts. If everything goes according to plan, his arrival could be finalised soon to start pre-season with a full squad. The player displayed his skills and performed well in the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
However, would John Victor really be the solution Onana needs behind him? At 29, the Brazilian brings maturity, but he does not seem like a huge leap in quality. His advantage lies in the solidity and confidence he exudes in key matches. For such a low price, John does not pose a financial risk. However, there is one point that cannot be ignored, and that is he does not come from a league with as high a tempo as the Premier League.
Reports emerging that Manchester United are ready to come up with an official offer for John Victor
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Adapting takes time, and the margin for error is reduced when the cameras are focused on every mistake. Onana made serious mistakes that cost points and eliminations. Victor could help him improve his concentration, although no one can guarantee that he will be ready to take over as first-choice keeper if Onana fails again, amidst rumors about his future. On the positive side, the dressing room would benefit from internal competition.
On the negative side, John may fall short if a total change is required between the sticks. Amorim needs to make bold decisions and bring in reinforcements to raise the bar. For the price, it seems sensible to give it a try, but if the intention is to get United out of the hole, it will take more than just safe saves. It will take leadership, character and a strong voice. John Victor could provide some of that, but not all of it, and therein lies the key to whether the gamble will serve any purpose other than filling the quota.