Leeds United Karl Darlow blow as two Premier League contracts 'offered' to goalkeeper
The Welshman officially left Leeds United upon the expiration of his contract this week.
Leeds United are now one of three Premier League teams to have submitted a contract offer to goalkeeper Karl Darlow, according to reports.
Darlow saw out the 2025/26 campaign as first-choice goalkeeper at Leeds having replaced £16million summer signing Lucas Perri in January. The 35-year-old started 22 Premier League games in total, keeping five clean sheets.
But he officially left Elland Road earlier this week, following the expiration of his contract. Leeds confirmed last month they remained in talks with the Welshman but as of yet, fresh terms have not been signed.
Interest in Darlow’s signature has intensified recently, with Premier League pair Everton and Manchester United both linked. They are among a number of top-flight clubs eyeing a back-up option for more established first-choice goalkeepers in Jordan Pickford and Senne Lammens respectively.
The Daily Mail now reports that interest from Manchester and Merseyside has progressed, with contract offers on the table for Darlow. Leeds are also believed to have put terms forward, with the experienced goalkeeper ‘contemplating his next step.’
Darlow is also believed to have held talks with Tottenham Hotspur before they eventually signed Burnley free agent exit Martin Dubravka. The Welsh international still has his pick of multiple Premier League options, albeit game-time is not guaranteed with any of those clubs.
Karl Darlow interest fuelling Leeds United uncertainty
It is probably most likely to come at Leeds, given he finished the previous campaign as Daniel Farke’s first-choice goalkeeper. Darlow would have a hard time dislodging either Pickford or Lammens, both of whom enjoyed excellent 2025/26 seasons with Everton and Manchester United respectively.
But Darlow would represent a good squad option for most Premier League clubs, given his homegrown status and proven ability at Premier League-level, should he be called upon amid an injury or suspension. It would also be low-risk with no transfer fee needing to be paid.
Leeds will be keen to find a resolution with the goalkeeper position looking very uncertain heading into the summer. Last season’s first-choice Darlow is no longer contracted to the club while Perri’s performances during his debut campaign in West Yorkshire asked more questions that they answered.
Illan Meslier has also left Leeds and since emerged as a potential back-up option for Premier League champions Arsenal. Alex Cairns is also out of contract but has reportedly agreed the terms of a new deal.
Uncertainty around the position has fuelled reports of interest in Parma’s Japan international shot-stopper Zion Suzuki. The YEP understands he is liked but as of yet, there is no active pursuit.