Manchester United’s promising young goalkeeper Radek Vitek has secured his future with the Red Devils by signing a new contract that extends his stay at Old Trafford until 2028. The 21-year-old Czech Republic U20 international, widely regarded as one of the club’s brightest academy talents, has subsequently joined Bristol City on a season-long loan for the 2025/26 Championship campaign, marking his third temporary move away from United in pursuit of first-team experience.
Vitek, who joined Manchester United from Sigma Olomouc in 2020, has been a standout performer at various youth levels, notably playing a key role in the club’s 2022 FA Youth Cup triumph. His imposing 6ft 5in frame, proactive style, and sharp reflexes have earned him high praise within the United setup.
However, with established goalkeepers like Andre Onana ahead of him in the pecking order, the club has opted to send Vitek to the Championship to further his development. The loan deal includes a January recall option, reflecting United’s high regard for the young shot-stopper.
The move to Bristol City comes at an opportune time for both Vitek and the Robins. Bristol City’s first-choice goalkeeper, Max O’Leary, is sidelined for up to four months following ankle surgery, creating an immediate need for depth in the goalkeeping department.
Vitek’s arrival provides a timely solution, and he is expected to compete with Joe Lumley and Lewis Thomas for a starting spot at Ashton Gate. The Robins, who finished sixth in the Championship last season before falling to Sheffield United in the play-offs, are aiming to mount another promotion push under manager Gerhard Struber, and Vitek’s addition is seen as a significant coup.
Bristol City’s Technical Director, Brian Tinnion, expressed his enthusiasm for the signing, stating, “We’re really pleased to secure the services of Radek as we strengthen the goalkeeping department for the upcoming campaign. He’s extremely well regarded at Manchester United, and we’re looking forward to working with him.” Vitek himself shared his excitement about the move, saying, “I’m really excited; for me, the Championship is a new level. It’s a fantastic opportunity to test myself in a competitive league, and I’m ready to contribute to Bristol City’s ambitions this season.”
This loan marks Vitek’s third stint away from Manchester United, following productive spells at Accrington Stanley in 2024, where he made 18 appearances, and Austrian Bundesliga side Blau-Weiss Linz last season, where he featured 37 times and helped the club achieve a historic sixth-place finish. His performances in Austria, including seven clean sheets in 28 league games, showcased his potential to thrive at a senior level. Academy goalkeeping coach Tommy Lee previously described Vitek as a “talented boy,” highlighting his standout performances, such as an inspired display in a friendly against Rosenborg.
For Manchester United, the decision to extend Vitek’s contract before sending him on loan underscores their belief in his long-term potential. The club has a history of nurturing young goalkeepers through loan spells, with the likes of Dean Henderson benefiting from similar pathways. Manager Ruben Amorim will be hoping Vitek can seize this opportunity to gain regular minutes in the Championship, a league known for its physicality and intensity, as he continues to develop his game.