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Leeds United have officially confirmed that goalkeeper Karl Darlow will leave the club as he prepares to finalise a transfer to Manchester United. The club revealed in a statement that Darlow opted to depart at the conclusion of his contract despite being offered a new deal, choosing instead to pursue a fresh opportunity. Leeds expressed gratitude for his vital role in securing the 2024/25 Championship title and aiding their Premier League survival last season.

The 35-year-old held talks with Leeds regarding an extension, but the club could not promise him a guaranteed starting spot. Manchester United, meanwhile, have been looking to strengthen their goalkeeping depth behind Altay Bayindir, with Darlow—Wales’ first-choice goalkeeper—expected to serve as backup to Senne Lammens.

Darlow initially joined Leeds from Newcastle United in the summer of 2023 for a fee of £400,000 during Daniel Farke’s first transfer window in charge. Although he started each of his three seasons as a second-choice option, his strong performances eventually earned him the number one position in the final two campaigns.

In the 2024/25 season, Darlow started the final seven matches after Farke dropped Illan Meslier, guiding Leeds to promotion and the Championship trophy. The following season, he replaced newcomer Lucas Perri in January as the main goalkeeper. Darlow ended the campaign with 22 league appearances and five clean sheets, while his remarkable stop against Wolves’ Ladislav Krejci earned him the Premier League Save of the Month award for April.

Facing the prospect of another season as an understudy, Darlow is now set to make the short move across the city to Manchester United, where he is expected to earn a higher salary in what could be the last major contract of his career. Leeds praised Darlow’s professionalism and character throughout his time at Elland Road. He leaves the club with 38 appearances, 10 clean sheets, and a Championship title to his name.