Leeds United face huge transfer issue as The Athletic drop worrying update

UmarFarouk June 24, 2026 2 minutes read

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.