Pranav Nair
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.
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.
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.
More Manchester United News:
- Transfer News: Manchester United will have to pay £10m to re-sign Sam Johnstone
- Dimitar Berbatov admits Harry Kane could leave Tottenham for Manchester United like him
- Fred reveals Manchester United mate Bruno Fernandes keeps talking about Raphinha
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)
