Manchester United Eye Leeds Goalkeeper Karl Darlow as Backup Option

Manchester United is reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow as a potential replacement for Altay Bayindir. This comes as the Red Devils prepare for the upcoming summer transfer window.

Following a successful debut season at Old Trafford, Senne Lammens is expected to retain his position as Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper for the 2026-27 season. Meanwhile, Tom Heaton has extended his contract with the club, but Bayindir, currently serving as Lammens’ backup, is anticipated to depart this summer.

Andre Onana is set to return to Manchester after a loan spell at Trabzonspor; however, he is not part of the club’s plans moving forward.

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United Targeting Darlow as Backup Goalkeeper

To strengthen their squad, Manchester United is expected to acquire another goalkeeper this summer, and according to talkSPORT, Darlow has emerged as a candidate. The report suggests that the 35-year-old could serve as Lammens’ backup next season.

Darlow featured in 24 matches for Leeds during the 2025-26 season, conceding 29 goals and achieving five clean sheets. He began his professional career at Nottingham Forest before joining Newcastle United in 2014, where he spent nine years.

After moving to Leeds in the summer of 2023, Darlow has made a total of 38 appearances for the club across all competitions and has kept ten clean sheets.

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Darlow’s Contract Situation at Leeds

Darlow’s current contract with Leeds is set to expire at the end of June, but negotiations for a new deal are underway between the player and the club. With extensive Premier League experience—having played 74 matches—and being a 15-time international for Wales, Darlow fits the profile of what Manchester United requires from a backup goalkeeper.