Middlesbrough are closing in on a major addition to their goalkeeping department as talks advance with Manchester United for 22-year-old shot-stopper Radek Vítěk.
Personal terms have already been agreed between Boro and the Czech goalkeeper, with the finishing touches now being put on a permanent move to Teesside.
Personal terms between Vítěk and Middlesbrough are fully agreed, with the player set to travel for final formalities however, Manchester United have insisted on inserting a buyback clause into the deal to protect their long-term interests.
Vítěk spent last season on loan at Bristol City, where he established himself as one of the league’s top goalkeepers, keeping 12 clean sheets and sweeping three Player of the Year awards.
Standing at 6’6″ , Vítěk has all the physical tools, aerial presence, and shot-stopping ability of an elite modern goalkeeper.
While Vítěk made it clear he wanted guaranteed first-team minutes rather than a backup role at Old Trafford, United officials remain very high on his ceiling. Inserting a buyback clause allows the Red Devils to watch his development as a first-choice keeper in the Championship and potentially bring him back if he outgrows the division.
