Man Utd’s potential summer exit makes U-turn as ‘new deal’ agreed

Vishal Bhawani

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Man Utd’s potential summer exit makes U-turn as ‘new deal’ agreed image

Just when it looked like Tom Heaton was heading for the Old Trafford exit, Manchester United have pulled off a bit of a transfer U-turn.

The veteran goalkeeper, once expected to leave this summer, has now agreed to stay at the club until 2026.

The 39-year-old was out of contract at the end of June and had been widely tipped to part ways with United. But plans can change fast in football — and this one has, with the club now preparing to make the new deal official in the coming days.

“Manchester United agree new deal for 3rd goalkeeper Tom Heaton staying at the club until June 2026,” Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X. “Decision shared with Rúben Amorim and approved by the coaching staff. Official soon.”

It’s a smart call from Amorim, who values Heaton’s experience and leadership around the training ground.

While he may not start games often, his presence is seen as important behind the scenes — especially for the young goalkeepers at Carrington.

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Why Man United wants to keep Tom Heaton? 

Heaton’s United return in 2021 was a homecoming. But since then, he’s made only three senior appearances.

His last start came in a 7-0 League Cup win over Barnsley last August. Not the busiest resume, but his influence clearly goes beyond the pitch.

Even England boss (that time) Gareth Southgate saw value in Heaton’s knowledge, naming him in the Euro 2024 squad as a support keeper. That speaks volumes.

United are still eyeing a back-up to replace Altay Bayindir, but this renewal gives them breathing room. With Andre Onana likely off to AFCON midway through the season, a steady pair of hands will be needed.

It’s quite the twist, especially after Romano previously said in April that Heaton and Jonny Evans were both “set to leave.” But in football, like in penalties, it’s never over until the final whistle.

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Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.

Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.