Newcastle United confirmed over the weekend that Loris Karius has penned a new 12-month deal at St. James’ Park – and it could be a sign that the Eddie Howe’s side are planning for the permanent exit of Leeds target Karl Darlow.
Karius, 30, joined Newcastle in September last season. It came after Newcastle decided to bring the German in as cover for Nick Pope, alongside Darlow. Martin Dubravka had been loaned to Manchester United the summer prior.
The ex-Liverpool man, renowned for his two howlers in the Champions League final against Real Madrid, played just once for the Toon – the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United, a 2-0 loss. But he has signed a new contract.
He is set to remain at Newcastle for another year, likely to be the club’s third-choice stopper. Dubravka is back at Newcastle, while Pope remains first choice. It means there is little point in Darlow staying at Newcastle this summer.
Phil Hay recently said on The Athletic’s website that 32-year-old Darlow is among the goalkeepers being considered by Leeds – alongside Preston’s Freddie Woodman, also sold by Newcastle last summer, and Norwich’s Angus Gunn.
Newcastle confirm Karius deal, a sign £5m Leeds target Darlow could go
The Sun say he also has Premier League interest in his services, in the form of Bournemouth – and is rated at a fee of £5m. If Karius did not sign a new deal, Darlow would still be third choice. But Karius’ new deal is surely a hint.
A sign that Newcastle are planning to offload Darlow, who starred in the Championship with Hull during the second half of last season – conceding just 14 goals in 12 games, five clean sheets. Leeds desperately need a new stopper.
Joel Robles has been made a free agent and while invited back to pre-season, is yet to attend. Illan Meslier is more than likely to be sold. So, Darlow is a target and a new deal for Karius is a sign that Newcastle are planning to sell.
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