Burnley to tie up Heaton deal

Clarets boss Sean Dyche looks set to make Bristol City keeper Tom Heaton his first permanent signing this week.
By Chris Boden
Published 13th May 2013, 15:00 BST
TOP OF THE STOPS: Tom Heaton denies Charlie Austin in Bristol Citys 3-1 defeat at Turf Moor last monthTOP OF THE STOPS: Tom Heaton denies Charlie Austin in Bristol Citys 3-1 defeat at Turf Moor last month
TOP OF THE STOPS: Tom Heaton denies Charlie Austin in Bristol Citys 3-1 defeat at Turf Moor last month

Dyche has moved quickly to replace Lee Grant, who returned to Derby County last week, and Brian Jensen, released after 10 years’ service, with a deal for 27-year-old Heaton expected to be concluded later this week.

The former England U21 keeper is out of contract at Ashton Gate, after his first season with the Robins ended in relegation from the Championship.

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Chester-born Heaton started his career with Manchester United, spending time on loan at Swindon, Royal Antwerp, Cardiff City, Rochdale, QPR and Wycombe Wanderers before joining Cardiff on a permanent deal in 2010.

In South Wales, he made 40 appearances and shone in their run to the Carling Cup Final in 2011/12, saving two penalties in the semi-final shootout against Crystal Palace, and another from Liverpool’s Steven Gerrard in a shoot-out final defeat at Wembley.

Heaton then moved on to Bristol City last summer, but was unable to halt the Robins’ relegation to League One.

Heaton will be joined by Whitby Town keeper Nick Liversedge, who will make the step up as a development-type player, having caught the eye of Billy Mercer while on trial.

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Related topics:Tom HeatonSean DycheBurnleyClaretsBristol City