Manchester United target free-agent Karl Darlow and Sam Johnstone in goalkeeping overhaul

Manchester United are targeting Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Sam Johnstone as the club moves to overhaul its goalkeeping department this summer, with several first-team changes already confirmed or expected at Old Trafford.

Darlow, 35, is out of contract at Elland Road at the end of this month and would be available on a free transfer. According to The Athletic, Leeds are keen to retain him and are expected to table a new offer, though United’s interest is genuine. Johnstone, 33, is another option under consideration, with the goalkeeper having come through United’s academy before departing in 2018 without making a senior appearance for the club.

The moves come despite United having just renewed veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton’s contract for a further season. The 40-year-old had been expected to leave this summer but has committed to staying on, despite making only three first-team appearances since joining in 2021. Heaton’s value to the squad has been widely acknowledged within the dressing room, with the departing Casemiro among his most vocal advocates.

“He is very important. Very important for us,” Casemiro told the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel. “He pushes the training, he pushes in the game — of course, he doesn’t play, but he pushes every time. For me, everyone needs this guy; he helps the room so much.”

Casemiro himself is set to leave Old Trafford when his contract expires, marking the end of a turbulent spell for the Brazilian midfielder at the club.

Elsewhere in the goalkeeping picture, Altay Bayindir is expected to depart, while André Onana’s future remains uncertain. The Cameroonian spent last season on loan in Turkey, and United are reported to be keen to recoup funds on the keeper. However, Onana is said to want to remain at the club and compete with Senne Lammens for the first-choice position.