Express & Star

Tom Heaton joins Aston Villa as spending spree continues

Aston Villa have welcomed their 11th signing of the summer, announcing the arrival of Tom Heaton from Burnley.

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The 33-year-old goalkeeper joins for an undisclosed fee, thought to be around £8m.

He's set to do battle with play-off hero Jed Steer for the starting spot in goal this season, with Lovre Kalinic likely to depart B6 having struggled to find form since joining in January.

Heaton joins from the Clarets having made 188 league appearances for the club - he's totalled three senior England appearances over his career so far.

“I am delighted that Tom is joining Aston Villa." Dean Smith said.

"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."

His signing continues Villa's spending spree, which now totals well above £100m this summer, as Smith prepares his side for their first top flight campaign since their relegation in 2016.

"It's been on the cards for a little while, so I'm absolutely delighted to be here." Heaton said.

"Having spoken to the manager, it seems like a fantastic opportunity and it's great that this massive football club is back in the Premier League and I'm delighted to be part of that."