It is not often that you see a 29-year-old goalkeeper playing in the Brazilian league linked with a host of clubs across Europe.
However, this summer has presented one such scenario where Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor is on the radar of a number of clubs.
News – Report – Man Utd prepare record offer to sign £347,000 a week player
He caught the eye with his performances for the Brazilian side in the recently concluded Club World Cup campaign. Just like the World Cup or the Euros throws some unsung names into the spotlight, the CWC did the same for John.
Man Utd have been linked with a move for the shot-stopper for quite some time now. Now, as per Caught Offside, league rivals West Ham United have made the first move to sign the 29-year-old, submitting an €8m bid to sign him this summer.
However, as per the report, although the Red Devils haven’t yet made a formal offer, they are prepared to match Botafogo’s asking price by triggering his release clause.
It is said that Man Utd’s scouts were impressed with his performance against PSG in the continental competition.
Interest in John is manifold with the likes of PSG, Atletico Madrid and Galatasaray also said to be interested in him.
Ultimately, it could all come down to the player’s desire and a move to a club like Man Utd will not just be a big career jump but he would also get the chance to play here.
Should Man Utd sign a new goalie?
Man Utd’s goalkeeper situation in recent seasons has been far from ideal. Andre Onana has failed to convince with his performances for the club in the past couple of seasons and it won’t be advisable for the Red Devils to go into another season with the Cameroonian as their first-choice.
Although John might not exactly be a spring-chicken and would be a rather under-the-radar signing, maybe that is exactly what Man Utd need this summer.
The only concern would be his ability to translate those Botafogo performances to the Premier League.
With all due respect to the Brazilian league, the kind of pressure and competition at Old Trafford would be something completely different.
In this regard, his age might actually help John have a calm head over his shoulders and let’s wait and see if Man Utd go for him in the upcoming weeks.
