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Not Johnstone – Man United keeping tabs on former academy star now at Premier League rivals

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Manchester United are set to sign Tom Heaton

Manchester United to target Tom Heaton if they fail in Sam Johnstone pursuit

According to the Sun (h/t Daily Mail), Manchester United are willing to look into signing Tom Heaton if they cannot do a deal for West Bromwich Albion ace Sam Johnstone.

Both players spent time at United early in their careers before moving on to make a name for themselves elsewhere. One of them could be brought in to compete with both David de Gea and Dean Henderson in the summer.

At 35, Heaton is a seasoned performer and has garnered much experience since leaving Old Trafford. Having him as a third-choice goalkeeper is not the worst idea.

Manchester United are interested in Tom Heaton

While Johnstone remains the priority, the 28-year-old is currently a regular at The Hawthorns. A return to United is unlikely to get him the playtime he craves.

Heaton, meanwhile, would be more open to such a proposition. The 35-year-old is currently serving as the backup to Emiliano Martinez at Villa Park and is used to playing the role of a bridesmaid.

United are keen to bring in a veteran who can add as a role model for young custodians Nathan Bishop and Matej Kovar.

Sam Johnstone is a regular for West Brom (David Klein/Sportimage)

The development comes after Lee Grant, United’s 38-year-old veteran made a U-turn regarding his future at Old Trafford. A popular member of the squad, he was expected to pen a 12-month extension. Instead, he will leave the club in the summer.

The Red Devils are set for a summer revamp of their goalkeeping department in the summer. Heaton would be a shrwed short-term investment.

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Heaton has been capped by the English national team three times. However his last call-up for the Three Lions came all the way back in 2019. (h/t Transfermarket)