Manchester United are close to signing veteran goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer. The 35-year-old left Leeds United at the end of June.
Darlow’s Recent Club and International Experience
He made 22 Premier League appearances for the West Yorkshire outfit last season, finishing the campaign as Daniel Farke’s first choice. Darlow is also Wales’ current first-choice goalkeeper.
Potential Squad Departures
The move for Darlow is likely to trigger the exit of Altay Bayindir. Bayindir spent the majority of last season as understudy to Manchester United’s first-choice Senne Lammens. Radek Vitek is also set to leave, either on loan or permanently, after impressing on loan at Bristol City last term.
Addressing Goalkeeping Back-up Needs
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick needed additional back-up in the goalkeeping position. This need arose given that 40-year-old Tom Heaton has not played a first-team game since February 2023.
Anticipated Pre-season Involvement
Providing the deal goes through as expected, Darlow will be involved in a pre-season campaign. This campaign begins against Wrexham in Helsinki on 18 July.