Pranav Nair
Tom Heaton aiming to challenge for Manchester United starting spot
According to Sky Sports, Tom Heaton is keen to challenge David de Gea and Dean Henderson for the starting spot at Manchester United.
The veteran shot-stopper is all set to become the club’s first signing of the summer. With his contract at Aston Villa expiring, he is available for free in the off-season.
The 35-year-old will sign a two-year deal with an option for a third. While it would be fair to assume he is a safe third choice, he has bigger ambitions.
Having come through the United academy, Heaton left the club in 2010 without making a single senior appearance. He played a key role in Cardiff City’s run to the League Cup final in 2012 before twice helping Burnley gain promotion to the Premier League.
In David de Gea and Dean Henderson, United already have two keepers vying for the starting spot. According to the report, it is unlikely that both will be at the club next season.
The former started in the Europa League final earlier this week but missed the decisive penalty in the shootout. Henderson has already expressed his desire to be the No.1 and it remains to be seen who of the two Solskjaer puts his faith in.
From Tom Heaton’s perspective, this is probably the last lucrative contract he could get in his career given he is 35 years old already. Moreover, he will add to the squad as a homegrown player.
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A one-time English international, Heaton has won three caps for the Three Lions. Arguably, his best days are behind him. If he is to become United’s starter, it will be a worrying development
