Leeds United could be about to witness an incredibly rare and controversial piece of transfer business with rivals Manchester United.
The fierce historic rivalry between the two heavyweights means direct player movements are an absolute rarity in the modern game.
According to a major new report from The Athletic, Red Devils chiefs have held initial talks over a swoop for Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow.
Manchester United bosses are currently reshaping their entire goalkeeping department as backup Altay Bayindir and former first-choice Andre Onana look destined to leave.
The Red Devils urgently need an experienced, cost-effective number two to support Senne Lemmens, especially with demanding UEFA Champions League fixtures returning to their schedule.
DISCUSS: He might be 35, but Leeds have to give Darlow a new deal! 🧤
Tottenham are lurking…
Manchester United hold structural talks for Karl Darlow
Darlow has emerged as a genuinely concrete option for Michael Carrick’s side because he will be available as a highly lucrative free agent when his Elland Road contract officially expires at the end of this month.
Furthermore, the 35-year-old crucially qualifies as a homegrown player, which helps the Manchester club satisfy strict Premier League squad quota rules effortlessly.
However, Manchester United will face stiff competition as Tottenham are also keeping close tabs on the experienced Wales international‘s current situation.
Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi is eager to bring in a reliable veteran deputy as uncertainty grows over Guglielmo Vicario’s long-term future in North London.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have already opened lines of communication to establish the total financial package required to complete the free transfer.
The hierarchy at Old Trafford view the veteran as a dependable figure who has proven he can actively push for a starting spot.
Darlow impressively dislodged Lucas Perri in LS11 last January, before starring in a crucial 2-1 victory over Manchester United in April.
Carrick’s side are entirely convinced his 300 senior career appearances make him the ideal dressing room presence to maintain high standards.
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Shiny new transfer kitty incoming!
Breaking Leeds United transfer taboo
If Darlow completes the move to Manchester, he will break a major footballing taboo by joining Leeds United’s most hated rivals.
He would follow iconic figures like Eric Cantona, Rio Ferdinand and Alan Smith in making the infamous, highly controversial journey.
While Paraag Marathe and Co. ideally want to keep him, Daniel Farke simply cannot guarantee the veteran goalkeeper regular first-team minutes next season.
While a move to Old Trafford would undoubtedly sting the Leeds fanbase, his nomadic career means it will not replicate the sheer fury of past betrayals.
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