Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow is expected to sign a new two-year contract with the club, rejecting interest from Manchester United, according to TEAMtalk. The 35-year-old Wales international impressed during the second half of last season, helping Leeds secure a 14th-placed finish in the Premier League.
Leeds are undergoing a period of rebuilding under new owners 49ers Enterprises, aiming to add five to six quality players to the squad. While the club successfully secured the signing of Harry Wilson on a free transfer from Fulham, the goalkeeping situation remained a key area to address. Tottenham Hotspur had previously been linked with Darlow, but Manchester United emerged as potential rivals, seeking cover and competition for Senne Lammens.
However, Leeds have offered Darlow a new deal that surpasses his current terms, and sources indicate a growing confidence that he will remain at Elland Road. The club has emphasized Darlow’s importance to manager Daniel Farke, alongside the increasing Welsh presence within the squad, as key factors in his anticipated decision.
This commitment to Darlow has implications for other goalkeepers at the club. Leeds have already allowed Illan Meslier to leave on a free transfer, and have agreed a new two-year deal with veteran stopper Alex Cairns, who serves as the team’s third-choice goalkeeper. The club remains intent on signing a new number one, with options like Manchester City’s James Trafford and Parma’s Zion Suzuki under consideration, though financial hurdles exist with both targets.
Lucas Perri, a £13.9 million signing last July, is now likely to be offloaded. The Brazilian has failed to establish himself as a regular starter, with Darlow proving to be the preferred option for Farke. Besiktas are among the clubs monitoring Perri’s situation, and a loan or permanent transfer could see Leeds make a loss on their initial investment. Manchester United, having missed out on Darlow, are now exploring alternative goalkeeping options, including Sam Johnstone.
