Premier League new boys Aston Villa have confirmed the £8-million signing of England goalkeeper Tom Heaton from Burnley.
The 33-year-old is the 12th player to join the club since they secured promotion back to the top-flight.
Heaton, who turned down a new contract offer from Burnley this summer, started his career in the youth academy at Manchester United and has also played for Cardiff, QPR and Bristol City.
Villa boss Dean Smith says he's delighted to boost their goalkeeping options with the three-time capped England stopper.
“He’s done fantastically well for Burnley over the past few years and his experience and knowledge of the Premier League will be a major asset to us this season.”
On behalf of everyone at Turf Moor, we wish Tom well in his future career. Thanks for the memories, skipper! pic.twitter.com/X0HZc4TjfR
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) August 1, 2019
Burnley manager Sean Dyche admits he's disappointed to lose the 'keeper but says the transfer fee was too good to turn down.
"Quite simply a situation arose this summer, where he is in the final year of his contract, there was contact from Aston Villa and I believe he has been offered a very good contract for him and his family.
"There is a business model at Burnley Football Club, which everyone has come to understand.
“It’s a very good fee for a very good player, but who is 33 with 10 months left on a contract, which has to be balanced up.
On the personal side, Tom is a fantastic bloke, a fantastic player and my first ever signing at Burnley. Without a shadow of doubt, for many years to come, he’ll be remembered very fondly, not just on the pitch, but off the pitch as well as a top professional and a top person.”
