Aston Villa have been given a major boost in their pursuit of Tom Heaton, with Burnley manager Sean Dyche admitting “there’s a chance” the out-of-favour goalkeeper could leave in January – a decision that both player and manager are open to.
Heaton has been linked with the Midlands outfit as Dean Smith is reportedly looking to replace Orjan Nyland between the sticks due to his inconsistency this season. Heaton could be open to a move as he’s struggled for playing time due to Joe Hart’s arrival over the summer.
Villa could sign Heaton on loan for the season and Dyche said to the Burnley Express: “There’s a possible chance. Tom’s in the open with my views as I am with his. Top goalkeeper. Joe (Hart)’s done well on the whole. We have conceded a lot of goals. But Tom’s pushing because he’s a pro.”
Heaton has made three appearances in all competitions this season, despite Burnley struggling to keep the goals out – the Clarets sit 19th in the Premier League table and have conceded 32 goals in 15 games. Heaton has spent the campaign as an unused substitute, with his last outing coming all the way back in September in the EFL Cup against Burton Albion.
The England international is second-choice under Dyche but may fall further down the pecking order when Tom Pope returns from his lengthy layout. Villa will be hoping to capitalise on the situation as Nyland hasn’t been too convincing in goal.
