Manchester United’s goalkeeper position is under the spotlight after an error from Altay Bayindir at the weekend.
With under a fortnight to go before the transfer window closes, Manchester United have an opportunity to try and solve the club’s problem goalkeeping position.
Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir do not inspire fans with confidence, leaving some to wonder whether third choice Tom Heaton might not be a bad option.
Part of the challenge for United is that to make an incoming signing, there would need to be a sale, and the club have failed to secure a single permanent exit this summer.
One cheaper solution could be a player who caught the eye at the FIFA Club World Cup, Botafogo goalkeeper Victor John.
Victor John in goal for Botafogo, points gloved finger in the air
Photo by MIGUEL SCHINCARIOL/AFP via Getty Images
Victor John to Man Utd transfer links
Victor John was linked with a move to Manchester United earlier in the summer. Goal Brasil carried the speculation, although played down any chances of an imminent move back in June.
Bolavip reported Botafogo wanted £10 million for the goalkeeper, while there had been claims that his contract contained an even cheaper release clause.
Since then, West Ham enquired about Victor John’s signature but were unable to progress a deal for the 29-year-old goalkeeper.
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South American football expert Tim Vickery spoke to Sky Sports on August 19 and was asked about whether Manchester United could pursue interest in Victor John.
Vickery responded: “You saw the debut yesterday for Leeds of Lucas Perri, John’s predecessor in the Botafogo goal, and John is quite similar, quite a similar goalkeeper.
“And given the events at Old Trafford at the weekend, there’s been speculation that maybe United could look to bring him in. I would think it’s probably unlikely after he’s just rejected a move to England.
“But obviously, as we’ve seen from everything that’s happened in this window, even without Champions League football, United is still a very, very powerful draw.
“So if there is something concrete on the table for this player, maybe Manchester United will turn his head more than West Ham were able to.”
The key point here is that despite speculation and discussion, Manchester United have not put forward an offer to Victor John or to Botafago.
Alternative options include Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, who would be a slightly costlier stopper but one who is six years younger.
Emiliano Martinez and Gianluigi Donnarumma have also been tipped for moves, with Gary Neville backing them to succeed purely from a personality standpoint, having the experience to deal with the Old Trafford cauldron.