Botafogo actively pursuing alternatives for John amidst Manchester United interest
Manchester United’s behind-the-scenes push for Brazilian goalkeeper John has prompted a wave of activity at Botafogo, with the Rio de Janeiro-based club now actively preparing for life without their highly-rated shot-stopper. While an official move from United has yet to be confirmed, the signals are growing stronger, this is no longer idle speculation.
United’s recruitment team have been intensifying its search for a long-term goalkeeping option, especially with concerns lingering over the injury and future of Andre Onana. The 29-year-old John, who has impressed both in domestic competition and on the continental stage, is viewed as a high-upside prospect capable of stepping up to the Premier League.
Sources in Brazil suggest that United have already made informal overtures, leading Botafogo to identify potential replacements. According to Goal Brazil (h/t Portal Times), Botafogo have turned their attention to Atlético Mineiro’s Matheus Mendes, currently on loan at América-MG. Talks are already underway, and although a deal is not close, Atlético’s initial response has been encouraging.
Manchester United are eyeing a replacement for Andre Onana.
Mendes, 26, isn’t just a stopgap. With 15 appearances this year, including seven clean sheets, he has shown the kind of consistency and maturity Botafogo would require should John depart. His presence would bring immediate competition for the starting role and help ensure that the club doesn’t lose ground in the Brasileirão or the upcoming Super Club World Cup.
From United’s perspective, this is a move that makes strategic sense. John is young, athletic, and commands his area well, traits United are seeking as they aim to blend experience with potential. Bringing him into the fold now, while he remains affordable and untested in Europe, would be a smart long-term investment.
Botafogo actively pursuing alternatives for John amidst Manchester United interest.
More importantly, United’s interest reinforces the club’s new transfer philosophy under INEOS: identify top talent before the rest of Europe does. With South American scouting becoming more prominent in the post-Brexit landscape, John represents both a shrewd acquisition and a symbolic statement about United’s global ambition.
For Botafogo, the writing is on the wall. While they remain hopeful of keeping their No.1, their urgency in lining up Mendes underscores their realism. As United weigh their options, the expectation is that formal negotiations could accelerate in the coming weeks. The veteran has enough experience under his belt to step into the role at Old Trafford with minimal fuss.
The Red Devils may soon have another Brazilian to add to their ranks, one who could be a mainstay between the posts at Old Trafford for years to come.