Aston Villa have now stepped up their interest in signing a Club World Cup star, who is set to be available for a bargain fee this summer, according to a report.
Villa set sights on new goalkeeper
There has been a great deal of speculation surrounding the future of Emiliano Martinez, with former scout Mick Brown revealing that a number of Premier League clubs are in the race for the goalkeeper’s signature.
Brown said: “Martinez is a very good goalkeeper, and from what I hear there are a few clubs who have been made aware that he will be available this summer. One of those clubs is Chelsea, who have been looking to strengthen in that position.”
Speaking about Manchester United’s interest, Brown went on to add: “United are very much in danger of missing the boat over this one. They’ve held talks but a Chelsea hijack is looking likely.”
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A move to Stamford Bridge could be of great appeal to the Argentina international, fresh off the back of the Blues winning the Club World Cup, and the Villans could look at a goalkeeper who excelled in the new-look competition as a potential replacement.
That is according to a report from Football Insider, which states Aston Villa are now stepping up their interest in Botafogo goalkeeper John Victor, who put in a number of eye-catching performances for the Brazilian side out in the USA.
Not only that, but Victor helped Botafogo secure the Brazilian Serie A title and Copa Libertadores last season, being named in the Team of the Year in both competitions, indicating that he could now be ready to test himself in Europe.
A deal for the 29-year-old would by no means break the bank, as he has a release clause of just £6m in his Botafogo contract, but there could be competition for the goalkeeper’s signature, with Manchester United also in the race.
"Incredible" Victor has earned Premier League move
It is little wonder that Carlo Ancelotti is considering calling the Botafogo star up for Brazil, given that he has performed extremely well across some key metrics for goalkeepers over the past year.
John Victor Stats
Average per 90
Goals against
0.76 (95th percentile)
Save percentage
80% (94th percentile)
Clean sheet percentage
47.8% (93rd percentile)
Botafogo defender Philipe Sampaio has also singled his teammate out for praise in the past, describing him as a “warrior” last December, with the shot-stopper going on to make some very impressive saves out in America at the Club World Cup.
Given Villa’s PSR concerns, Victor could be a fantastic low-cost addition to the squad, but Unai Emery will still be hoping that Martinez is willing to commit his future to the club.
