Manchester United have agreed a deal worth up to £14million for Radek Vitek to join Middlesbrough, while protecting themselves with several significant clauses in the agreement.
Vitek is expected to complete a permanent move to the Riverside after an impressive season on loan at Bristol City. Reports state that United have secured a 35% sell-on clause, matching rights and a buy-back option, giving the club several ways to benefit if his value continues to rise.
The 22-year-old was also due to undergo a medical before finalising the move.
Radek Vitek Manchester United transfer protects future value
Vitek has reached the stage of his career where regular senior football is essential.
The Czech goalkeeper excelled during his loan spell with Bristol City, winning their Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards. BBC Sport detailed Vitek’s outstanding season in the Championship.
Opportunities at Old Trafford would be considerably harder to find. Senne Lammens is established as United’s first-choice goalkeeper, meaning another season away or a permanent departure always appeared increasingly likely.
United have therefore found a way to generate a sizeable transfer fee without completely giving up their interest in Vitek’s future.
The reported 35% sell-on clause could prove particularly valuable if Middlesbrough eventually sell him for a significantly higher fee. Matching rights and a buy-back option provide further protection if United decide they want to bring him back to Old Trafford.
That approach fits into a busy final period of the summer window. ReadManUtd has already examined why the coming weeks could prove decisive for United’s transfer business, with further arrivals potentially dependent on Michael Carrick’s squad being trimmed.
Middlesbrough, meanwhile, would be signing a goalkeeper who has already shown he can perform consistently in the Championship.
For United, the Radek Vitek Manchester United transfer offers an immediate financial return while leaving the club well positioned to benefit again if his career continues on its current trajectory.
