Karl Darlow and Alex Cairns Credit: Imago
Leeds United fans were surprised when Karl Darlow decided to leave the club as a free agent. The Whites offered him a new deal when his contract expired at Elland Road.
There was the expectation that he would continue as the first choice goalkeeper going into this season.
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But he turned down the new deal and decided to go to Old Trafford. Reports suggested that Leeds were not giving him a guarantee to be the club’s first choice keeper next season.
So Darlow will be a backup option in Michael Carrick’s team.
Him leaving has complicated a lot of transfer plans going forward for the Whites. And with Lucas Perri being linked with a move to Torino in Italy, things have become even more complex.
Leeds United star makes honest admission about Karl Darlow
Darlow posted a heartfelt farewell message to Leeds United fans after the move.
Joining bitter rivals will mean that the keeper will not be remembered fondly when he eventually returns. Ethan Ampadu spoke about Karl Darlow and his move to BBC Sport West Yorkshire.
“I think Karl’s decision is Karl’s decision,” Ampadu said.
“I know him well as a player and a person, so it’s always sad when you see someone close to you – also Pascal [Struijk] and Illan [Meslier] – when you see someone you’ve worked hard with go, it’s always a sad thing.
“But when people leave it’s nothing but wishing everyone the very best in their careers. I know when me and Karl go away with Wales, we’ll still get on well and we’re still going to try to achieve a good Nations League and qualify for the Euros so we’ll speak to Karl then.”
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49ers have to resolve goalkeeping situation
At the start of pre-season Leeds United have just two goalkeepers in the first team.
Alex Cairns served as the reserve keeper last year, and Lucas Perri lost his place after arriving as a marquee signing. With news that the Brazilian could leave Elland Road soon, there should be serious concern at the club.
Leeds have been linked with multiple targets so far this window.
But per Graham Smyth’s report this week, James Trafford seems to be the one the club are waiting on. The World Cup is over and now the England star needs to hold talks with Man City over his future before any deal can be struck.
In the meantime, the Whites need to get a new keeper through the doors soon.