Manchester United and Everton in transfer battle for Botafogo's John Victor

United scouts watched him at the Club World Cup

According to Globo Esporte, Manchester United scouts closely monitored John Victor during this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup. The report clearly states:

“Scouts from Manchester United observed John during his appearances at the Club World Cup.”

Following those performances, he climbed higher on United’s shortlist of targets.

First contact made in January

According to UOL and Globo Esporte, Manchester United made their first formal approach in January 2024. In response, Botafogo extended John’s contract and raised his release clause to a higher level.

Everton also in the race

Globo Esporte reports that Everton have also reached out to John’s camp to explore the terms of a possible move. This contact further boosts the chances of a Premier League move for the goalkeeper.

Conflicting reports on release clause

UOL reports that John Victor’s release clause stands at around $8 million (approximately £5.9 million). However, Globo Esporte suggests the figure rose significantly after the new contract was signed, though the exact figure remains undisclosed.

Who is John Victor?

Now 29, John Victor began his professional journey at São Paulo. After early spells with Bahia and Portuguesa, he joined Internacional in 2019. He struggled to make an impact there and moved to Botafogo in 2021, where he immediately became the first-choice goalkeeper.

He is known for his physical strength, command of aerial balls, and ability to stop penalties. His quick reflexes and shot-stopping skills inspire confidence, while his strong distribution helps initiate attacks from the back.

Manchester United’s goalkeeping uncertainty

Since David de Gea’s departure, Manchester United have struggled to find stability in goal. In the 2024/25 season, André Onana featured in 50 matches across all competitions, conceding 65 goals and keeping 11 clean sheets. His first season at the club, 2023/24, had also drawn criticism as he conceded 58 goals in the Premier League alone and managed just 8 clean sheets in 38 matches.

Under manager Ruben Amorim, United demand more than just shot-stopping. His system also values passing accuracy, long-ball distribution, and vertical passes to initiate play.

Brazilian goalkeepers and the Premier League connection

Brazil has become a key exporter of goalkeepers to the Premier League in recent years. Alisson Becker (Liverpool) and Ederson Moraes (Manchester City) are regarded among the league’s most reliable goalkeepers. Brazilian clubs like Botafogo, Flamengo, and Palmeiras are notable for consistently supplying talent to European clubs.

Botafogo remains a vital part of that pipeline. Through players like John Victor, the club is striving to strengthen its presence in the European market. As such, his potential move could mark a prestigious step for both the player and the club.