Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Karl Darlow on a free transfer when his contract with Leeds United expires this summer.
The goalkeeper began the 2025-26 season as the deputy to Lucas Perri, who arrived from Lyon for £13.9million last summer, but went on to step up as Daniel Farke‘s No.1 as the season progressed.
When the campaign drew to a close, Darlow had made 24 appearances across all competitions for Leeds United, keeping five clean sheets and playing a major role in keeping them in the Premier League.
However, the 35-year-old now faces an uncertain future at Elland Road, as his contract expires in less than five weeks.
DISCUSS: He might be 35, but Leeds have to give Darlow a new deal! 🧤
Tottenham are lurking…
Leeds United told to offer Darlow a new deal amid Tottenham interest
It emerged earlier this week that Tottenham are interested in snapping Darlow up if he does not extend his stay with the West Yorkshire outfit.
Spurs are said to have sounded out the Wales international as they look to bolster their options in the goalkeeping department after battling relegation this season.
However, Jermaine Beckford, who wants the club to also prioritise Ethan Ampadu’s situation, has urged Leeds to reward Darlow with a new contract for his contributions this term, even suggesting the idea of a two-year deal.
The former Whites man claimed that the shot-stopper has been “fantastic” for Farke’s side, stepping up promptly amid Perri’s struggles.
He also stressed the need for Leeds to sign a new goalkeeper, with Illan Meslier heading towards the exit door at Elland Road.
“I would love to see Karl Darlow sign on for another year or two”, he told the YEP. “I think he’s been fantastic since he came in after the cup games, the early cup games.
“I think Lucas Perri did all right, but a couple of mistakes forced Daniel Farke’s hand. I would like to see him sign on.
“Illan Meslier, obviously, his contract has come to its conclusion, so we need another goalkeeper in anyway.”
SPOTTED: Illan Meslier says goodbye to Leeds United 👋
Leeds must target new No. 1 instead
While it is easy to understand Beckford’s perspective, Leeds United must resist the temptation to hand a new deal to Darlow.
The Welshman certainly played a big role in the club staying up this year, but going into the new season with Perri and Darlow as the only goalkeeping choices would not be smart.
Meslier is certain to depart, and so is Alex Cairns.
Unless the Yorkshire outfit also offload Perri, there is no reason to keep a 35-year-old Darlow around.
Leeds must focus on bringing in a new No.1, with Perri then challenging that player for the spot in the starting eleven.
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