Dean Henderson finally seals Man Utd transfer exit as he joins Crystal Palace after SIX loans in eight years

DEAN HENDERSON has finally left Manchester United after completing a permanent transfer to Crystal Palace.

The goalkeeper has signed for the Eagles in a £15million deal, which could increase to £20m with add-ons.

Henderson has penned a long-term deal with Roy Hodgson's side as he looks to force his way back into Gareth Southgate's England squad.

And the ex-Red Devil can't wait to settle down at Selhurst Park after taking in six loans in the last eight years.

Henderson, 26, said: “I’m absolutely delighted and buzzing to be here. I can’t wait to get started.

“This club has got great fans and has a lot of top players who are hungry to succeed. There’s something being built here, and I really want to be a part of it."

Chairman Steve Parish added: “Dean is a fantastic addition to our squad and goalkeeping unit.

"We have been long-term admirers of Dean's, following his ascension through the ranks at Manchester United and England, but also his impressive achievements whilst on loan at Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United."

Henderson also released an emotional statement on social media.

It read: “Saying goodbye to United is an emotional moment for me. This club has been a part of my life since I was a kid.

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“From growing up as a United fan, to joining the academy aged 14, to stepping out on the pitch at Old Trafford!

“The journey has been a dream come true and I feel very blessed and fortunate to have fulfilled that dream.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone in the club who believed in my potential and helped shape my career.

“To everyone in the academy, my teammates, my family, the managers and the backroom staff, your guidance and support has helped me become the player and man I am today.

“And to the fans – your support has meant the world to my family and I. I’ve been United since I was a kid, and being able to wear the United badge on my chest has been an honour beyond words.

“I never took for granted the responsibility that came with wearing the shirt. We’ve had some highs and lows but I want to thank all of you for sticking by me throughout.

“Thank you for the memories and I wish the club all the very best for the future. United.”

Henderson started his career at Carlisle United before joining Man United in 2011.

However, he didn't make his Red Devils debut until 2020 following loans at Stockport County, Grimsby Town, Shrewsbury Town and Sheffield United.

After his second season with the Blades, Henderson enjoyed a brief run in United's XI, clocking up 29 appearances.

But he soon found himself behind David de Gea again and went out for a sixth loan to Nottingham Forest last term.

Henderson saw a possible return under Steve Cooper vanish when Forest signed Matt Turner from Arsenal.

And he is now set to compete with England pal Sam Johnstone for the No1 shirt at Palace.

As for United, they are now left with just Tom Heaton as back-up for Andre Onana.

The new stopper could be away for up to a month with Cameroon at AFCON this winter.

And the Red Devils may now be set to seal a deal for Fenerbahce goalie Altay Bayindir.

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