Middlesbrough are nearing the permanent signing of Manchester United goalkeeper Radek Vitek, a move aimed at bolstering their promotion aspirations to the Premier League. Vitek impressed during a loan spell with Bristol City last season in the second tier of English football.
Despite returning to Manchester United for pre-season training, Vitek has expressed a clear desire to secure a starting role as a number one goalkeeper. Manchester United's signing of Karl Darlow as backup to current number one Senne Lammens has further clarified Vitek's future, with the transfer to Middlesbrough nearing completion.
Middlesbrough are considered strong contenders for promotion from the Championship next season. The club has also been active in the transfer market, reportedly agreeing to a £20 million deal with Tottenham Hotspur for striker Will Lankshear.
Manchester United has agreed to terms for Vitek's transfer, reportedly including a buy-back clause and other favorable conditions. Vitek himself has emphasized the importance of consistent playing time. "I'm ready to go somewhere again and hopefully be No 1," he stated earlier this summer. "My mind is the same (as it was back in March). I want to play every week and that's the goal for next season."