Manchester United have confirmed the future of one player - what happens next feels inevitable
"Tom (Heaton)'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."
It's clear to see just how much Manchester United value what Tom Heaton brings to the group.
The former Burnley shot-stopper has made just three appearances since his return to United in 2021, although Jason Wilcox didn't hold back in his praise for the veteran after it was announced he had penned a new one-year deal at the club.
Heaton will be 40 by the time his new deal expires, but it's what he brings to the club away from the pitch that makes him such a valued member of the squad. And with change on the horizon in the goalkeeping department, his experience and knowledge of United will be essential.
Questions have been raised over Andre Onana's future, but the Manchester Evening News understands the Cameroon international wants to stay at the club and is working under the assumption that he will remain first-choice goalkeeper.
Ruben Amorim is on the hunt for a new goalkeeper this summer to compete with Onana at Old Trafford, and that means Altay Bayindir's time at United is surely set to come to an end.
The former Fenerbahce goalkeeper has failed to push Onana for top spot, producing a series of uninspiring displays whenever he has been given the nod. His penalty shootout heroics against Arsenal in the FA Cup did little to mask his overall performance levels whenever Onana was absent.
Having lost his starting spot in the Turkey national team he will be eager for more first-team exposure ahead of next summer's