July brings a new month for Manchester United and this is when we expect the club’s transfer business to start clicking in.
There could be a flurry of activity to start the month. There are a couple of deals close to completion and a couple more situations which require clarity.
So what exactly could be United’s order of business on July 1? Here is a look at what we expect…
Tom Heaton in
Tom Heaton is expected to officially join Manchester United on July 1.
Heaton’s contract at Aston Villa expires at midnight on June 30. He has already said goodbye to the club after they announced he would be released.
Heaton will be United’s number three goalkeeper, and his role will rise to number two, if either David de Gea or Dean Henderson leave.
Heaton, 35, will sign a two year deal to 2023 with an option for an extra season. Fabrizio Romano reported he has already completed his medical.
This deal has been on ice for the past month waiting for July 1, the earliest date he could possibly sign. Expect an announcement – unless United have a bigger one planned first…
Juan Mata decision
Juan Mata’s contract at Manchester United expires officially at midnight tonight, June 30.
When United announced the list of released players, it was declared that a decision on Mata’s future has yet to be made.
The veteran’s preference is to stay, the MEN reported. Spanish newspaper Sport had reported he was set to be offered a one year contract on reduced wages.
Mata did not play much last season and his decision to stay in his comfort zone has to be weighed against possible opportunites for regular football elsewhere.
One way or another, an announcement on Mata’s future could be made on July 1.
Lee Grant decision
Another player who could get a one year extension is veteran goalkeeper Lee Grant.
Grant’s contract expires at midnight like Juan Mata, and United were in discussions with the former Stoke stopper.
Even with Tom Heaton’s arrival, there could be a role for Lee Grant.
This would come if one of De Gea or Henderson leave. In essence, Grant would simply stay and retain his place as third choice.
If Grant or Mata are going to be released, an announcement could be forthcoming communicating that.
Jadon Sancho, finally?
It would be remiss not to mention the possibility of Jadon Sancho’s deal finally going through.
Marcus Rashford as good as confirmed the move already, and United and Dortmund could decide to finally announce the deal.
While it seems the clubs are waiting until the Euros are over, Rashford’s declaration may have ended up speeding the process up.
BILD have reported there could be an announcement on July 1, claiming a deal is done, pending signatures. The fee is set at £72 million, and The Athletic report approval has been given for a medical.
Fabrizio Romano has even tweeted his ‘here we go’ for the deal, and all that is missing is United’s official announcement.
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