Leeds face fight to keep Karl Darlow without number one promise | OneFootball

Leeds must decide whether to guarantee Karl Darlow the number one shirt if they want to keep him, with the goalkeeper out of contract at the end of this month after a strong season. Tottenham Hotspur and Champions League Manchester United have been linked, neither as first choice.

According to Leeds Live, Darlow has begun each of his three seasons under Daniel Farke as back-up, taking the gloves in the last two. He turns 35 next year and could feel he merits starting a campaign as number one.

Leeds are expected to try to retain him, but the key call is a first-choice pledge or another understudy deal. Farke has praised Darlow, yet hinted in January he would ideally have liked a new goalkeeper.

If Spurs or United offer similar back-up roles on higher wages, and Darlow accepts not being number one, his decision could be simpler. Leeds risk being on the back foot if they can only propose a reserve berth.

The club are tipped to revisit the goalkeeping market, with doubts over Lucas Perri after his 3.9m move from Lyon and a reduced valuation. With a World Cup likely to push business late, and Darlow set to be a free agent, his call looks central to Leeds plans.

Source: Leeds Live