“West Ham’s SHOCKING Airport Betrayal Leaves Star Player STRANDED – Now He’s Plotting REVENGE by Joining Premier League Rivals!”

The inconsistent form of Alphonse Areola prompted Graham Potter to enter the transfer market in search of a new goalkeeper.

That pursuit came to an end last week when West Ham completed the signing of Mads Hermansen from Leicester City.

However, Hermansen was not always the obvious choice. The Hammers had also shown serious interest in Brazilian goalkeeper John Victor, and new details have now emerged about why that move collapsed.

Victor’s failed West Ham switch

Victor, regarded as one of the most promising keepers in Brazil, played a key role for Botafogo as they reached the knockout rounds of the Club World Cup.

West Ham even tabled a £9.5 million bid for his services but eventually withdrew, opting instead to pay £20m for Hermansen.

According to The Sun on Sunday (17 August, page 57), Victor was already at Rio airport when he was informed that West Ham had pulled out of the deal.

Despite the disappointment, the Brazilian remains eager to secure a move to England and still hopes to play in the Premier League.

That ambition could yet be realised this summer, as he is available for a loan move with an option to buy.

Botafogo have already brought in Neto as his replacement, opening the door for Victor’s potential departure.

Did Potter take a gamble?

There is no doubt Victor is a highly capable goalkeeper, meaning Potter’s choice to favour Hermansen comes with risk.

Statistically, over the past year, Victor has posted stronger numbers than the Danish shot-stopper.

Yet, the level of competition in Brazil compared to the Premier League is a factor that cannot be ignored.

Hermansen did enjoy a decent debut, but he was still in goal for West Ham’s 3-0 defeat against newly promoted Sunderland.

His performances will need to be consistent and of high quality if the Hammers are to stay clear of another relegation battle.

Ultimately, Potter’s decision may only be judged in hindsight. While Hermansen has the tools to succeed, many will wonder if Victor might have offered a better long-term solution.

For now, the Brazilian waits patiently for another chance to showcase his talent on the Premier League stage.