Man United hand contract extension to longest-serving player
Manchester United have confirmed that goalkeeper Tom Heaton has signed a one-year contract extension with the club.
Heaton’s previous contract was supposed to expire at the end of this month, but United have opted to extend it.
He first joined Man United in 2002 as an academy player but left in 2010 without making an appearance for the first team.
The English goalkeeper returned in 2021 and eventually debuted in the Champions League group fixture against Swiss side Young Boys in 2022.
A United academy graduate, the 39-year-old has made just three appearances for the club.
He last played in the victory over Nottingham Forest in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final in January 2023.
Reacting to his contract extension, Heaton told Manutd.com: “I am extremely proud to continue to represent Manchester United. As a group, we are all really excited for the season ahead.
“I am ready to support the team in every capacity as we prepare to get back to challenging for the biggest honours.”
Director of Football Jason Wilcox has revealed the reason behind extending the former England international’s contract.
“Tom’s leadership and experience are really important for the group so we’re pleased that he will be part of the squad again next season.
“Tom’s mentality and excellent preparation to ensure that he is always ready to perform when called upon makes him the perfect complement to our goalkeeping group.”
Regarded as the club’s longest-serving player, Heaton’s contract extension is not expected to impact his status as the club’s third-choice goalkeeper.
Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir remain the first and second-choice goalies, respectively, but their futures are uncertain, particularly Onana’s.
The Cameroonian has been poor since he arrived from Inter Milan, and United are now exploring the possibility of replacing him.
The Mancunian giants have been linked with Atalanta goalie Marco Carnesecchi, valued at £43 million. Their alternative is Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.
Stats from transfermarkt.com
Article written by Henry Thornton .