Journo: Man Utd now ‘exploring’ surprising contract extension for forgotten Red who’s ‘invaluable’ at the club

Manchester United are reportedly ‘exploring’ a contract offer for Tom Heaton ahead of his terms expiring next month, according to journalist Katherine Walsh.The proposed deal would likely only be on a 12-month basis, with the expectation being that the 40-year-old transitions into a ‘player-coach hybrid role’ when he eventually decides to pull the curtains on his playing career. United are exploring a new contract option for Tom Heaton. Heaton has been training with Radek Vitek, who has returned after a successful loan with Bristol City #mufc https://t.co/qxjuJLl9iy — Katherine Walsh (@katwalshy1) May 12, 2026DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYTom Heaton primed for new United dealHeaton hasn’t featured in a competitive match since February 2023, while he’s also only made three appearances since making his return to United, where he came through the academy ranks, in 2021.Want more Stretty News coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustYet, the shot-stopper’s expertise and vocality in the dressing room are said to have made him an ‘invaluable’ and ‘respected’ member of the squad.Walsh’s report adds that Heaton has been working closely with highly-rated young ‘keeper Radek Vitek following the end of his successful loan spell with Bristol City last week. Player of the Year 🏆Young Player of the Year 🏆Players’ Player of the Year 🏆 What a season for Radek Vítek. 👏 pic.twitter.com/7f0hPSQLhT — Bristol City FC (@BristolCity) May 2, 2026Vitek, 22, is garnering interest from a host of Championship suitors in the lead-up to the summer window, so it remains to be seen what United chiefs will decide to do with him, given Senne Lammens has now nailed down the No.1 spot.INEOS preparing for more exits after CasemiroHeaton is one of a handful of senior Reds whose contracts will expire at the end of the campaign.Casemiro is confirmed to be departing as a free agent, while Tyrell Malacia and Jason Sancho, who’s on loan with Europa League finalists Aston Villa, will be released.Read more: ‘His time’s done’ — Scholes makes ruthless summer prediction over in-form Man Utd man who’ll be going to the World Cup