Sources in Brazil say Aston Villa, Wolves and Burnley are all understood to have had scouts watching Victor this month whilst Manchester United, Everton and even Turkish giants Galatasray have shown interest in the shot stopper for some time.
The Hammers have already brought in defender El Hadji Malick Diouf and Kyle Walker-Peters but are now hoping to upgrade their goalkeeper to replace Lukasz Fabianski who has been between the sticks for a number of years.
Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, West Ham have made the first move for Victor which will only trigger more clubs to join the race for the 29 year old who has made 55 appearances for Botafogo since joining the side in 2024.
“EXCL: West Ham submit formal bid worth €8m for Brazilian GK John Victor from Botafogo.
“Galatasaray and Everton also keen on John Victor after Man United monitored him in the recent months.”
Victor became a target for many sides including United following his impressive displays at the Club World Cup in the United States. He also helped Botafogo win Brazil’s Serie A and the Copa Libertadores last year and he was named in the Team of the Year for both competitions in 2024. Only time will tell if West Ham snap up the talented goalkeeper, who is sure to come under more bids in the next few days.