Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has reported on Twitter that Leeds United and Bournemouth are set to do battle for Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow – and while neither club have made a bid, offers are expected “soon”.
Darlow, 32, has been loosely linked with a move to Leeds since the club suffered relegation. It comes after Darlow impressed on loan at Hull City last season, during the second half of 22-23. In 12 games, he conceded just 14 goals.
In that time, he kept five clean sheets. FLW reported last month that Darlow is one of four goalkeepers Leeds have discussed internally. Rotherham’s Viktor Johansson, Fulham’s Marek Rodak and Preston’s Freddie Woodman, too.
The Sun reported over the weekend that Newcastle want £5m for Darlow, with Bournemouth keen. Now, Downie has given an update. He says that while neither club has made a bid, the two sides will make offers for him very “soon”.
Downie says Leeds offer expected soon for Newcastle goalkeeper Darlow
Illan Meslier is expected to leave Leeds, and Joel Robles is now technically a free agent – though invited back to pre-season to train with the club. So, Leeds need a goalkeeper – possibly two. Darlow would be a very solid signing.
Darlow’s stats from the Championship are impressive. Playing 152 times in England’s second tier, he has conceded 190 goals – keeping 48 clean sheets. A decent tally. £5m might be quite the fee for someone of 32, but it is worth it.
His experience, his know how, that will be crucial when it comes to bringing in a goalkeeper between the sticks. But, Bournemouth will tempt Darlow – especially, if the Cherries make him first choice. But Neto is no.1 at Bournemouth.
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