Manchester United goalkeeper Radek Vitek is on the verge of sealing a permanent move to Championship side Middlesbrough.
According to journalist Danyal Khan, the two clubs have agreed a deal worth up to £14 million, including add-ons.
Man United have also secured a 35% sell-on clause, ensuring they will benefit financially if Vitek fulfils his enormous potential in the future.
The Red Devils have also included matching rights and a buy-back clause in the agreement to bring Vitek back to Old Trafford in the future.
The 22-year-old enjoyed a superb loan spell at Bristol City, where he won the Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards.
He made 136 saves over the campaign with a success rate of 71 percent. His 12 clean sheets left him only five behind league leader Carl Rushworth.
Rushworth has since completed a permanent move to newly promoted Coventry City in a deal reportedly worth £22m.
Despite being three years younger than Rushworth, United are expected to receive only £7m upfront for Vitek.
???? GKs exits at Man United today as Bayindir joins Celta Vigo… and Radek Vitek joins Middlesbrough on permanent deal.
Green light for medical; £7m fee plus add-ons up to potential £14m package.#MUFC also mantain 35% sell-on clause and buy back for the GK. pic.twitter.com/I0ClUwjlO1
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 5, 2026
That comparison once again raises uncomfortable questions about INEOS’ ability to maximise transfer income from the club’s academy talents.
While sell-on clauses and buy-back options provide valuable long-term protection, extracting stronger guaranteed fees should remain the priority.
Altay Bayindir also appears close to leaving, with Celta Vigo pushing to complete a loan move that includes a €4m option to buy.
Given that Bayindir’s contract expires next summer, United are unlikely to generate any significant financial return from the deal.
The club do possess the option to extend his contract by another year, but activating that clause for a player no longer in their plans appears highly improbable.
Stats from Fotmob.com