United star signed by Solskjaer whose contract ends in June “open to staying”, eyeing future coaching role – report

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag decided to take the huge step of discarding long-term goalkeeper David de Gea in the summer.

The decision was not taken in haste as the Dutchman watched the Spaniard for one full season in which the club legend committed numerous errors, none bigger than the one in the FA Cup final which ultimately broke the camel’s back.

The club had initially offered the former Atletico Madrid man a new long-term deal on reduced wages but on Ten Hag’s instructions, rescinded that offer and put on the table a new deal on even lesser wages.

De Gea opted to leave, leaving Ten Hag with Dean Henderson and Tom Heaton. Henderson was keen to quit, and and with a deal for Andre Onana dragging on, the manager decided to block an exit for Heaton.

Heaton’s future

Premier League new boys Luton Town were interested in the academy graduate who started only two games in the previous campaign.

But after discussions with the manager, the shot-stopper ended up staying only to see the club bring in Altay Bayindir as reserve keeper which meant he was effectively made third-choice.

He has been named on the bench 12 times this season but is yet to make an appearance with the Turk himself making only one appearance in his debut season.

In fact, since his return to Old Trafford, the 38-year-old has only managed three appearances when former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had promised much more.

Heaton’s current deal with the club ends in June and with the goalie keen to play more and in no mood to hang up his gloves, a separation seemed likely.

But as The Manchester Evening News have now revealed, the former Burnley star is open to staying on and is receptive to the idea of joining the coaching staff at the club in the future.

Contract ends in June

Bayindir has been linked with an exit and that could mean an unlikely promotion but Heaton is keeping all his options open as he seeks to play a bit more regularly.

“Tom Heaton is open to staying at Manchester United after his contract expires in June. Heaton has no intention of retiring and is keeping his options open.

“He is understood to be disappointed at his limited playing time at United but would be receptive to assuming a coaching role at the club after his playing career finishes.”

If both reserve keepers end up leaving, another mad scramble for goalies could ensue as was seen last season. Hopefully, the club can keep the continuity intact at the back.

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