Manchester United are reportedly weighing up the possibility of bringing former academy ace Tom Heaton back to Old Trafford this summer.
According to an exclusive report by The Sun, Tom Heaton has popped up on the radar of former club Manchester United over a possible move in the summer transfer window. The Red Devils will turn their attention towards the 35-year-old in case they are unable to secure the services of Sam Johnstone.
Heaton spent his formative years with Manchester United, graduating from their youth setup in 2005, but never really managed to break into their first-team squad. And, after six loan spells away from Old Trafford, the Englishman finally kicked off his career for good. However, it is during a six-year stint with Burnley when Heaton finally went on to make a name for himself.
While with the Clarets, the veteran goalkeeper went on to establish himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League while also becoming a regular for the English national side. The move away from Burnley, though, has not quite worked out that well for Heaton, who is now the backup to Emiliano Martinez at Aston Villa.
However, despite barely featuring for a year now, Heaton’s stock seems to be high, with former club Manchester United considering the prospect of re-signing him this summer. Coincidentally, the Red Devils have also been linked with Aston Villa teammate Martinez.
Manchester United’s eagerness to sign a goalkeeper is understandable, considering David de Gea is facing an uncertain future at Old Trafford. With Sergio Romero and Lee Grant also set to make their way out of Old Trafford this summer, it is not hard to see why United would want to bolster their goalkeeping department.
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To that end, the Premier League heavyweights have identified Sam Johnstone as their priority target, although the fact that he will demand regular game-time could be a stumbling block. As a result, Manchester United seem to be keeping their options open, with Heaton also an alternative for them to consider.
The report claims that the incoming goalkeeper will have to suffice with being an understudy, which then makes Heaton more of a viable target. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if Manchester United indeed end up turning their attention towards Heaton, or if they manage to bring Johnstone back to Old Trafford.
