Manchester United have triggered the one-year option in the contract of goalkeeper Tom Heaton as they continue to assess their options for next season.
United have exercised the option that will keep Heaton at Old Trafford for a third season, although the 37-year-old is understood to be keen to go and play regular football in the twilight of his career.
Heaton, who has played in the Premier League for Burnley and Aston Villa, is the subject of interest from top-flight newcomers Luton Town and Championship outfit Hull City, but at the moment it looks like he will remain at United for the 2023/24 season.
The goalkeeper came through the ranks at Old Trafford but left before making a first-team experience in 2010, only to return two years ago as backup when his Villa contract expired.
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He spent most of this season as David de Gea's No. 2 and was on the bench for 23 of the first 26 Premier League games before sustaining an ankle injury in March. He returned to training in early May and was back in the matchday squad as third-choice goalkeeper in time for the 2-0 win against Wolves on May 13.
But he was overlooked for a place on the bench for the rest of the season, with on-loan Crystal Palace stopper Jack Butland named in reserve instead, and it's understood Heaton was particularly disappointed not to be on the bench for the FA Cup final against Manchester City on June 3.
The decision to activate the option in the deal Heaton signed in 2021 comes amid uncertainty over United's plans for their goalkeeping department next season.
There are now just two weeks left to run on David de Gea's current deal and although the terms of a new agreement are thought to be roughly in place, an extension is yet to be signed as United explore their options.
The Spaniard endured a disappointing end to the campaign and while Erik ten Hag has said he wants to keep the 32-year-old, he has offered no assurances that he will remain No. 1 into next season and beyond.
United are interested in Anderlecht goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, but the 20-year-old Dutchman is now close to a move to Brighton in this transfer window. He was only considered as a backup goalkeeper and someone for the future at Old Trafford.
If De Gea does depart then a more experienced first-choice will be required. United have been linked with Inter Milan's Andre Onana, who impressed in the Champions League final and played 145 games under Ten Hag at Ajax, but there has been no approach so far.
While there remains uncertainty over De Gea's future, United do not plan to let Dean Henderson leave the club. The academy graduate spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, who now want to sign him on a permanent deal.
Henderson is desperate to go and be a first-choice goalkeeper somewhere and if De Gea does sign a new deal then United will open negotiations with Forest to allow the 26-year-old to move to the City Ground.
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