Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow this summer as they search for an experienced back-up in the position. The 35-year-old’s contract is set to expire at Elland Road later this month and is available on a free transfer.
The Athletic claims the Whites want to offer Darlow a new deal to keep him at the club, and are expected to offer him a new deal. United are also said to have discussed a move for Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who came through the youth set-up at Old Trafford.
The 33-year-old left United in 2018 and has forged an impressive career, despite not making a senior first-team appearance for the Reds. It’s an interesting development given United have just extended the contract of veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton for another season.
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The 40-year-old was expected to leave Old Trafford this summer, but has extended his stay for another year. Heaton first arrived at the club in 2021 and has made just three appearances for the first-team in that time.
Despite his lack of game time, he’s seen as an invaluable member of the squad and plays a key role in driving standards behind the scenes. One player who will definitely be leaving United this summer is Casemiro, whose Old Trafford deal is also due to run out/
View 2 ImagesTom Heaton has been back at Manchester United since 2021(Image: Ben Roberts – Danehouse/Getty Images)
The Brazilian has previously emphasised the crucial role Heaton fulfils within the dressing room, and why his contribution is so vital. “He [Heaton] is very important. Very important for us,” Casemiro said on Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel.
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“He pushes the training, he pushes in the game, of course, he doesn’t play, but he pushes every time. For me, everyone needs this guy; he helps the room so much.”
United are expected to revamp their goalkeeping department, with Altay Bayindir expected to leave, and there are doubts over Andre Onana’s future at the club. The latter spent last season on loan in Turkiye and United want to cash in on the goalkeeper, but reports claim he wants to stay and challenge Senne Lammens for the number one spot.
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