Karl Darlow joins Manchester United as backup goalkeeper after Leeds exit

Manchester United are on the verge of officially announcing the signing of goalkeeper Karl Darlow, 35, who departed Leeds United at the end of the 2024/25 season after choosing not to renew his contract at Elland Road.

Darlow arrives at Old Trafford as a backup option, with Senne Lammens firmly established as United’s first-choice goalkeeper following a strong debut campaign. The role will be a familiar one for Darlow, who has spent much of his career navigating the fine line between starter and understudy.

The shot-stopper began his career at Nottingham Forest before Newcastle signed him in 2014. He spent nine years at St James’ Park before joining Leeds on a permanent deal, initially as cover for Illan Meslier. When Meslier’s form dipped, Darlow stepped in for the final seven games of the 2024/25 season and helped Leeds clinch the Championship trophy.

His path to regular football at Elland Road was far from straightforward. Lucas Perri’s arrival pushed Darlow back to the bench ahead of Leeds’ Premier League return, though an injury to the Brazilian handed him another opportunity. Once Perri recovered, Darlow was again displaced — until manager Daniel Farke lost patience with Perri following a 4-3 defeat to Newcastle. From mid-January onwards, Darlow reclaimed the starting spot and did not relinquish it.

“I have always wanted to play wherever I have been,” Darlow said ahead of a victory over Nottingham Forest. “I have just kept myself going and have been true to myself throughout the whole time I have been here. Thankfully, I am back in the team and enjoying it.”

Farke attempted to keep Darlow at the club with a new contract offer, but the goalkeeper opted to move on. United’s pursuit of him comes amid a broader flurry of transfer activity, with Andrey Santos from Chelsea also close to completion and a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson still said to be active despite conflicting reports.

Darlow’s experience across the Championship and Premier League makes him a dependable option in reserve, and his own words suggest he is well-versed in making the most of limited chances. Whether he gets the opportunity to push Lammens remains to be seen, but United appear confident they have secured reliable cover between the posts.