Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow this summer, a move that would break a 22-year trend of transfers between the two rivals.
United are planning significant squad changes after securing Champions League qualification under manager Michael Carrick, and are looking to strengthen their goalkeeping options. Backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who arrived from Fenerbahce in 2023 for €5 million, is expected to be sold, creating a need for a new reserve shot-stopper.
Despite Andre Onana returning from a loan spell at Trabzonspor, Carrick does not feature the 30-year-old in his plans and the club are seeking to reduce his wages by finding him a new club. While Tom Heaton recently signed a one-year contract extension, United are prioritizing a homegrown option to fill the backup role.
According to talkSPORT, Darlow has been identified as a potential target. The 35-year-old finished last season as Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper, making 22 Premier League appearances after displacing summer signing Lucas Perri. With Darlow’s current contract expiring at the end of the month, United have an opportunity to sign him on a free transfer.
Should the move materialize, Darlow would be the first player to move directly from Leeds to Manchester United in 22 years. The last player to make the switch was Alan Smith in 2004, a transfer that drew significant criticism from Leeds supporters due to Smith’s academy background with the club. Other notable players who have crossed the divide include Rio Ferdinand and Eric Cantona. The transfer could provide experienced cover for United’s number one, Senne Lammens, and address a clear need within the squad.
