Man Utd eyeing move for standout Club World Cup goalkeeper as replacement for Andre Onana as bargain release clause revealed

Victor’s stock has risen sharply after he delivered an eye-catching performance in Botafogo’s recent triumph over European champions Paris Saint-Germain. The towering keeper managed to keep a clean sheet against the French giants, a feat matched only by Liverpool’s Alisson this calendar year.

One of the key elements driving United’s pursuit is a reported clause in Victor’s contract that allows him to depart for a modest $8 million (£5.8m). The clause was included after the player opted to stay with Botafogo for the Club World Cup despite having lucrative offers from Europe in January. That decision appears to have paid off, not only for the club but also for Victor, whose value and visibility have soared. United now appear poised to capitalize on the opportunity and could soon formalize their interest with an official bid, according to Football Insider.

Earlier this year, his agent Pedro Gutierrez confirmed that multiple European clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur, had reached out about his availability. The 6’5” goalkeeper has enjoyed a decorated spell with Botafogo, helping the club secure an unprecedented double with victories in both the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian Serie A.

United had previously set their sights on Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, currently at Aston Villa. However, it’s understood that Martinez has chosen to pursue a move to Atletico Madrid, prioritizing Champions League football and turning down offers from England and Saudi Arabia.

In light of that setback, United have also shortlisted Lille’s Lucas Chevalier as a potential low-cost solution. While the young Frenchman remains an option, Victor has now emerged as the club’s top priority due to his proven big-game performances and favourable release clause.