Manchester United close in on sealing surprise return for goalkeeper Tom Heaton on a free transfer with veteran set to provide back-up for David de Gea and Dean Henderson
- Tom Heaton is set to return to Manchester United this summer on a free transfer
- The experienced goalkeeper, 35, will soon leave Aston Villa after two seasons
- Heaton was in United’s youth academy for five years and left for Cardiff in 2010
- Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has now moved for Heaton with Sergio Romero set to exit
Manchester United are discussing a free transfer move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Tom Heaton.
The 35-year old started his career with United and is wanted as experienced back-up to Dean Henderson and David de Gea.
United have not offered a new contract to third choice Lee Grant but may find a coaching role for the popular 38-year-old, while Sergio Romero is due to leave this summer also.
Charlton’s Ben Amos, another former United junior, was also discussed and, though he is out of contract, the 31-year old wants to continue playing regular football rather than move as cover.
Manchester United are reportedly closing in on bringing back veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton
Heaton (pictured in action against United in 2019) will provide back-up as United’s third choice
Heaton was a United youth player for five years, and left Old Trafford to join Cardiff in 2010
Heaton joined Villa from Burnley for £8million and made 20 appearances before suffering a knee injury. They subsequently signed Emiliano Martinez who has established himself as first choice.
Heaton is now assessing whether to make the move back to Old Trafford where his chances of first-team action could be more limited unless De Gea moves on.
The Spain international has been usurped as No 1 but has still to decide his future. His wage and value also make it very difficult for suitors to finance any transfer this summer.
Sergio Romero is set to leave United and may reunite with former boss Jose Mourinho at Roma
