Karl Darlow considering turning down new Leeds deal with Everton and Man Utd keen
Karl Darlow's time at Leeds United may be coming to an end, following the expiry of his contract, with Everton and Manchester United now showing interest.
Darlow's deal at Elland Road expired on June 30, although Adam Pope of BBC Radio Leeds emphasized the importance of tying down the goalkeeper on new terms, saying: “In my opinion, you have to give him a new contract.
“His distribution [against Brighton] it was absolutely amazing. He throws balls in the park. He played well, yes, I'm not saying that he was satisfied with being number 2, but he knew that he would enter this season as a second player, which was difficult. You are visible to everyone.”
The Whites brought in Lucas Perri to be their number one last summer, but the Welshman eventually dropped him from the starting XI, showing he still has a lot to offer at Premier League level.
However, two clubs with prominent goalkeepers seem to want to sign the 35-year-old as a defender.
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Football FanCast verdict |
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Honesty |
Jordan Pickford has been a mainstay between the sticks for Everton for a long time, while Senne Lammens has established himself as a first for Man United. However, it is clear why the prospect of signing an experienced Premier League goalkeeper from Darlow as a back-up option will still appeal, not least because he has impressed in the 2025-26 season. |
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Finance |
Furthermore, his availability on a free transfer when his Leeds contract expires is an added bonus. During his time at Elland Road, the stopper earned £30,000-a-week, which should be more than the Toffees and Man United can afford. |
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Understanding |
The 15-capped Wales international has 74 Premier League appearances to his name, 22 of which came for Leeds last season. During that time, he netted 27 goals and kept five clean sheets, helping Daniel Farke's side to a 14th-place finish in their first season back in the Premier League. |
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Impact |
It's hard to imagine Darlow getting much game time at Everton, considering David Moyes already has England debutant Pickford. However, the way he played for Leeds last season suggests that he may not be able to step in for the 32-year-old if his form drops. |
Everton are considering a move for Karl Darlow
According to a report from Sky Sports, Everton and Man United are considering a move for Darlow, who is represented by the same agency as Jake O'Brien, and is now available on a free transfer.
Leeds have offered their experienced goalkeeper a new deal, but are considering rejecting an extension in favor of a move elsewhere.
Karl Darlow is more than capable of backing up Jordan Pickford
Despite spending most of his career in the EFL, the former Hull City man has proven himself a safe hand in the top flight, recording a save percentage of 70% last season, which was the sixth highest in the Premier League.
In Leeds' Premier League semi-final of the season at home to Brighton, their goalkeeper made seven saves, including four from inside the box, in a 1-0 win, while he also made five saves from inside the box in a 2-1 win at Man United in April.
Pickford wasn't at his best in England's 2-1 win over DR Congo on Wednesday, which was more of a shock than it needed to be, with the Everton keeper being beaten in his near post.
However, he has started every Premier League game in the past three seasons, suggesting that Darlow may have a difficult time forcing his way into Moyes' squad, and may need to settle for minutes in the cup competitions.
Everton have been given the green light by Marseille after a bid to sign Timothy Weah
The Toffees could land their second signing of the summer.
