Leeds United could be forced into scouring Europe for a new goalkeeper as Karl Darlow’s contract nears expiry with no sign of an update.
The Whites are likely looking at the top end of the pitch for the bulk of expensive reinforcements this summer. As much as Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor starred in our survival run, there is an acceptance that relying on both to run it back is foolish.
However, there’s pressing matters at the back. Amidst uncertainty on Pascal Struijk’s future, the same is said of Karl Darlow, soon to be a free agent.
Man United still interested in signing Karl Darlow amidst Leeds United’s radio silence
When Leeds announced the 25/26 retained list, Darlow was included in the list of players in ongoing talks to renew his contract. He, alongside Sam Byram and Alex Cairns, could still pen fresh terms.
But since then, we’ve had barely any updates suggesting the 35-year-old stopper is due to put pen to paper at Elland Road.
Instead, The Athletic are now worryingly reporting that Man United remain interested in the Wales international on a free transfer.
Michael Carrick is looking for a new backup goalkeeper behind Senne Lammens. And, Darlow is claimed to be one of a handful being weighed up, alongside Wolves’ Sam Johnstone.
Elsewhere, Spurs insider Paul O’Keefe has claimed that Burnley’s Martin Dubravka has emerged as their most likely target for a likewise backup role. Previously, the North London strugglers had targeted Darlow for that signing.
Leeds United forced into goalkeeper transfer hunt as Karl Darlow remains in Man Utd crosshairs
It wouldn’t be a popular move from Darlow if he swapped Elland Road for Old Trafford. But, I personally wouldn’t be that bothered. There’s barely any loyalty in football nowadays and he’s got one big contract left in his career, so sitting on their bench makes plenty of sense at 35.
That being said, it leaves Leeds in a position where we are rebuilding in goal once more. I highly doubt Daniel Farke will be keen to have Lucas Perri reinstated as his first choice next season.
So, it leaves the club in need of a new starting goalkeeper during this summer.
Could that be James Trafford? He’d certainly be top of mine and many Leeds fans’ lists. We could look at someone abroad like Noah Atubolu or Zion Suzuki, amid links to the latter.
Whichever way we go, I’d expect the club have their ducks in a row with Darlow still yet to sign.
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