Everton ‘to rival’ Man Utd for free agent Karl Darlow as Leeds face fight | OneFootball

Leeds United face a growing fight to keep Karl Darlow after the goalkeeper’s contract expired on Tuesday, with Everton joining Manchester United in the chase.

According to Sky Sports, Everton are exploring a move as they seek depth behind Jordan Pickford and Mark Travers, and Manchester United are also eyeing the out-of-contract Welsh international. Leeds have tabled a new deal, but Darlow is considering his options.

United want an experienced back-up to their clear first-choice, Senne Lammens. Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana could both leave, with Onana expected to return to Trabzonspor on loan and Bayindir’s future uncertain. Should the latter depart, Old Trafford interest could strengthen.

Darlow would represent a low-cost, low-risk addition for any Premier League club. The 35-year-old is homegrown, a full international and played 22 of Leeds’ 38 top-flight games last season.

He covered for Illan Meslier during the 2024/25 promotion run, lost his place to new signing Lucas Perri last summer, then reclaimed the No.1 shirt earlier this year after two errors by his rival against Manchester United and Newcastle.

Goalkeeper remains a live issue at Leeds, with Perri the only senior option under contract. A new deal is thought to be verbally agreed with Alex Cairns, although nothing is confirmed. Illan Meslier is also a free agent and has Premier League interest from Arsenal, who might seek cover for David Raya.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk