Manchester United have confirmed that Tom Heaton has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him at the club until 2026. The veteran goalkeeper, who graduated from United's academy, will remain in Ruben Amorim's squad next season as summer business continues at Old Trafford.
Heaton's deal was set to expire on July 1 alongside Jonny Evans, Victor Lindelof and Christian Eriksen. However, the 39-year-old will continue as United's third goalkeeper beyond the summer, likely behind Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir.
The 2025/26 season will be his 20th as a professional footballer, two decades after making his senior debut in 2005.
Reacting to the announcement, Heaton said: "I am extremely proud to continue to represent Manchester United. As a group, we are all really excited for the season ahead.
“I am ready to support the team in every capacity as we prepare to get back to challenging for the biggest honours.”
Jason Wilcox, United's director of football, added: “Tom’s leadership and experience are really important for the group, so we’re pleased that he will be part of the squad again next season.
“Tom’s mentality and excellent preparation to ensure that he is always ready to perform when called upon makes him the perfect complement to our goalkeeping group.”
Heaton represents one of the primary leadership figures in Amorim's dressing room amid a mammoth rebuild.
He returned to Manchester from Aston Villa in 2021 and has made three appearances for United since.
Heaton made his long-awaited debut for the Red Devils in August 2021, replacing Dean Henderson for the final 20 minutes of a 1-1 Champions League draw with BSC Young Boys.
The Chester-born stopper later kept clean sheets in a 3-0 win against Charlton Athletic and a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on the path to Carabao Cup glory in the 2022/23 season.
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He has earned three England caps throughout his career and was part of Gareth Southgate's group for Euro 2024, travelling to Germany as a training goalkeeper.
Amorim is forming his new-look squad before United return to Carrington for pre-season on July 7.
The M16 giants have not yet overseen any major sales but Matheus Cunha has arrived in a £62.5million deal from Wolves.
Bryan Mbeumo could join him through the door next week, with an agreement worth over £60m for the Brentford forward nearing completion.