Radek Vitek Signs New Manchester United Contract and Joins Bristol City on Loan

Goalkeeper Radek Vitek has signed a new contract with Manchester United. This extends his stay at the club until June 2028. The young Czech will spend the 2025/26 season on loan at Bristol City in the Championship.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Manchester United offered Radek Vitek, 21, a new long-term deal after his progress with both their first team and on loan. With his contract now running until 2028, Vitek will join Bristol City on loan for the 2025/26 campaign. This is his third loan spell away from United, following time at Austrian club Blau-Weiss Linz and Accrington Stanley in League Two.

Instead of attending Manchester United’s preseason tour, Vitek finalized his switch to Bristol City to gain experience in English football’s second tier.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Bristol City finished sixth in last season’s Championship. They narrowly missed out on Premier League promotion after losing to Sheffield United in the play-offs. The club is aiming to challenge again for a spot in the top flight. Vitek’s arrival is expected to bring more competition in goal and to help develop his career through regular match action.

In his loans abroad and with Accrington, Vitek gained first-team minutes but the Championship will be his toughest test yet. Manchester United wants to see how he handles higher-level competition as they plan for his long-term future.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Bristol City start their new Championship season on August 9 with an away match against Sheffield United, the team that ended their play-off run. Bristol City are hoping to secure automatic promotion this time and will rely on a strong defence, potentially anchored by Vitek.

For Manchester United, Vitek’s progress will be closely tracked as the club continues to prepare young players for first-team roles or for increased transfer value. United’s goalkeeper plans are evolving, with other academy keepers also out on loan.