Manchester United are poised to make bold decisions as they prepare for a major squad overhaul ahead of the 2025–26 season.
While Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen are set to depart when their contracts expire in June, an unexpected twist may see Tom Heaton stay put at Old Trafford.
Many expected Heaton to head for the exit, but the veteran shot-stopper could now be offered a new deal.
According to the Daily Mail, Heaton is in talks over a new one-year deal at Man United to stay as the club’s third-choice keeper next season.
The Englishman came through the United academy as a youngster and rejoined the club in 2021.
The 39-year-old has played just three times for the Red Devils and has not featured for the first team at all this campaign.
His only appearance came this season with the development team in the 3-2 win over Barnsley.
It is a sensible choice for United to offer an extension to Heaton with uncertainty around the futures of Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir.
Onana has made several high-profile blunders since arriving from Inter Milan in 2023.
Bayindir made his Premier League debut against Newcastle United when manager Ruben Amorim chose to rest Onana.
The Turkish international made two errors that led to goals, further diminishing his chances of ever staking a claim to be United’s number one.
United’s need for an upgrade in goal is clear, but their more pressing issues lie elsewhere on the pitch.
The club must recruit at least two attackers and a dynamic wing-back to strengthen their thin options.
A midfield addition could also be on the cards if Casemiro is moved on during the summer window.
With so many uncertainties around, it makes sense for United to offer Heaton a new one-year deal.
United could have promoted a goalkeeper from their academy, but young players need regular minutes rather than sitting on the bench waiting for rare opportunities.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
