LEEDS UNITED have confirmed that they remain in discussions with goalkeeper Karl Darlow over his future - with arch-rivals Manchester United having been linked with a move for the experienced custodian.
The Wales international's contract expires at the end of June and as things stand, he will become a free agent unless new terms are agreed upon.
His contractual situation has alerted several rival clubs, including the Red Devils, who are keen to bolster their goalkeeping ranks with some bonafide Premier League experience.
The former Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United keeper's value became evident at Elland Road in 2025-26, as the 35-year-old impressively stepped into the breach in mid-season to claim the number one role ahead of Lucas Perri.
LEEDS, ENGLAND - MAY 01: Karl Darlow of Leeds United celebrates victory after the final whistle of the Premier League match between Leeds United and Burnley at Elland Road on May 01, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)placeholder image
LEEDS, ENGLAND - MAY 01: Karl Darlow of Leeds United celebrates victory after the final whistle of the Premier League match between Leeds United and Burnley at Elland Road on May 01, 2026 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Initially, Darlow was promoted after the Brazilian suffered an injury, but he soon fully established himself as Daniel Farke's first-choice goalkeeper.
In total, Darlow, who penned a three-year contract when he joined the club in the summer of 2023, started 22 top-flight games last term.
Speaking about Darlow's impact towards the end of the season, Farke commented: "I think Karl was fantastic in the last weeks and last months, to be honest since the first day I worked with him, not just his performance on the pitch, but also how he is as a human being.
"And I've got not just the highest respect for Karl, but also I rate him so, so high.
Darlow has emerged as a potential transfer target for Manchester United.placeholder image
Darlow has emerged as a potential transfer target for Manchester United.
"Karl knows this 100 per cent, there's a big, big trust between each other, and you can read, perhaps even a bit in between the lines, if you want.
"But I will just speak about the future, once everything's confirmed."
Meanwhile, the club also remain in talks with versatile defender Sam Byram over his future alongside back-up keeper Alex Cairns.
Byram, 32, in his second spell at Elland Road, returned to the club in the summer of 2023.
He initially signed a one-year deal with an appearance-triggered 12-month extension before penning fresh terms last July.
The York-born player made five appearances in all competitions last season.
Loan midfielder Facundo Buonanotte has returned to parent club Brighton and Hove Albion.
Academy youngsters Connor Douglas, Devon Brockie, Lewis Pirie and Marley Wilson will depart the club upon expiry of their current contracts.
Fresh terms have been tabled to Darryl Ombang.