Karl Darlow’s time at Leeds United could be coming to an end, following the expiration of his contract, with Everton and Manchester United now showing interest.
Darlow’s Elland Road deal came to an end on June 30th, despite BBC Radio Leeds’ Adam Pope underlining the importance of tying the goalkeeper down to fresh terms, saying: “In my opinion, you have to give him a new deal.
“His distribution [against Brighton] was absolutely amazing. He’s pinging balls across the park. He’s been excellent, and yes, I’m not saying he was content to be number two, but he knew he was coming into the season as number two, which was harsh. He’s seen off everybody.”
The Whites brought in Lucas Perri to be their new number one last summer, but the Welshman ultimately went on to oust him in the starting XI, indicating he still has plenty left to give at Premier League level.
However, two clubs with established first-choice goalkeepers are seemingly looking to sign the 35-year-old as a back-up.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Jordan Pickford has been a mainstay between the sticks for Everton for quite some time, while Senne Lammens has established himself as Man United’s number one. However, it is clear to see why the opportunity to sign an experienced Premier League goalkeeper in Darlow as a back-up option would still appeal, not least because he impressed in the 2025-26 season. |
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Finances |
Moreover, his availability on a free transfer upon the expiration of his Leeds contract is an added bonus. During his time at Elland Road, the shot-stopper earned £30,000-a-week, which should be more than affordable for the Toffees and Man United. |
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Insight |
The 15-cap Wales international has 74 Premier League appearances to his name, with 22 of those coming for Leeds last season. During that time, he shipped 27 goals and kept five clean sheets, helping Daniel Farke’s side secure a 14th-place finish in their first season back in the Premier League. |
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Impact |
It is difficult to envisage Darlow getting much game time at Everton, considering David Moyes already has England number one Pickford at his disposal. However, his performances for Leeds last season suggest he could be capable of stepping in for the 32-year-old should his form dip. |
Everton considering move for Karl Darlow
According to a report from Sky Sports, Everton and Man United are considering moves for Darlow, who is represented by the same agency as Jake O’Brien, and he is now available on a free transfer.
Leeds have offered their experienced goalkeeper a new deal, but he is considering rejecting an extension in order to pursue a move elsewhere.
Karl Darlow more than capable of being back-up for Jordan Pickford
Despite spending the majority of his career in the EFL, the former Hull City man has proven he is a safe pair of hands in the top flight, recording a save percentage of 70% last season, which was the sixth-highest in the Premier League.
In Leeds’ penultimate Premier League match of the season at home against Brighton, their goalkeeper made seven saves, including four from inside the box, in a 1-0 victory, while he also produced 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 victory against DR Congo on Wednesday, which was more nervy than it needed to be, with the Everton goalkeeper getting beaten at his near post.
However, he has started every single Premier League game over the past three seasons, which suggests Darlow could have a hard time forcing his way into Moyes’ side, and may have to settle for minutes in the cup competitions.
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