Manchester United sign Karl Darlow on free transfer as Bayindir and Onana depart

Manchester United have signed goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer, with the 35-year-old Wales international penning a contract until June 2028 — with an option to extend for a further year — after his deal at Leeds United expired.

Darlow spent three seasons at Elland Road and made 22 Premier League starts last term, establishing himself as Leeds’ first choice and keeping five clean sheets. He arrives at Old Trafford with 279 career appearances to his name, 74 of them in the Premier League, including nine years at Newcastle United.

“Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Karl Darlow has joined the club, subject to registration,” the club said in a statement. “Last season Darlow established himself as Leeds United’s number one goalkeeper and kept five clean sheets.”

Darlow is expected to serve as back-up to Senne Lammens next season. United were actively seeking a new second-choice stopper following a significant reshaping of their goalkeeping department. André Onana has already rejoined Trabzonspor on loan, while Altay Bayindir is set to return to Turkey on a permanent basis.

Radek Vitek, the 22-year-old Czech goalkeeper who impressed on loan at Bristol City last season, is also likely to depart. United will consider a loan move for Vitek but are open to selling him outright if an acceptable offer arrives.

Darlow’s signing also bolsters United’s homegrown quota, an increasingly important consideration for clubs navigating Premier League squad registration rules.