Manchester United close to keeping Tom Heaton for another season on new deal

Tom Heaton is set to remain at Manchester United for at least one more season after the club reportedly agreed a new one-year contract with the 40-year-old goalkeeper, according to The Sun.

Heaton joined United in the summer of 2021 and has made just three first-team appearances, but his standing in the dressing room has made him a valued presence beyond his on-pitch contributions. His current deal was due to expire this summer, raising the prospect of his departure from Old Trafford — a scenario that now appears to have been avoided.

It is the second successive summer in which Heaton has signed a short-term extension to stay at the club. The pattern suggests United see him primarily as an experienced voice and training-ground presence rather than a playing option, a role that former midfielder Casemiro publicly endorsed.

“He is very important. Very important for us,” Casemiro said on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel. “He pushes the training, he pushes in the game — of course, he doesn’t play, but he pushes every time. For me, everyone needs this guy; he helps the room so much.”

Casemiro himself will not be following Heaton’s lead. The Brazilian’s contract is also expiring this summer, and he is not expected to sign an extension, bringing an end to his time at Old Trafford.

The Heaton news arrives as United prepare for a busy transfer window ahead of their return to the Champions League next season. A deal to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson has already been agreed, with a £38.8 million package comprising a £35 million initial fee and £3.8 million in add-ons. United are also reportedly tracking West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes as they look to further strengthen the engine room.

Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season as the club’s permanent manager and will oversee what is shaping up to be a significant summer rebuild at Old Trafford.