Manchester United’s attempt to secure Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has taken an unexpected turn, according to the latest reports.

Although strengthening the midfield remains the Red Devils’ main focus this summer, they are also seeking a new No.2 goalkeeper to provide cover for Senne Lammens.

The 23-year-old Belgian has proven to be one of United’s most successful signings in recent years, excelling in his debut season after completing an £18.1 million move from Royal Antwerp last summer.

While both Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir struggled with inconsistency and defensive instability, Lammens has delivered reliability and composure between the posts.

After spending last season on loan with Turkish Süper Lig club Trabzonspor, Onana will continue his stay in Türkiye, as another season-long loan has been agreed with the Black Storm for the 30-year-old Cameroonian.

Similarly, Türkiye international Bayindir is expected to head back to his homeland if an appropriate offer materialises, with Besiktas currently leading the chase for his signature.

This situation leaves manager Michael Carrick short of a No.2 goalkeeper, as veteran Tom Heaton recently agreed to extend his contract by one year to continue as the third-choice option.

Darlow, who began last season as a backup, rose to become Leeds United’s first-choice goalkeeper following Lucas Perri’s struggles. The 35-year-old Wales international made 22 appearances in the Premier League, playing a key part in Daniel Farke’s newly promoted side ensuring their top-flight survival.

With Darlow’s contract at Elland Road originally set to expire this month, Manchester United had been exploring the possibility of signing him on a bargain deal to add valuable experience to their goalkeeping department.

INEOS reportedly held discussions with the 6’3″ Northampton-born keeper, who previously featured for Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United during his career.

However, in a setback for United’s recruitment plans, Darlow appears ready to turn down the Old Trafford interest and instead commit his future to Leeds United by agreeing to a new contract that will keep him as the club’s No.1 choice.

As reported by The Leeds Press: “Leeds have offered [Darlow] a new contract, but the delay in negotiations led to suggestions that he could be on his way out of Elland Road in the ongoing window. However, there is now clear indication that Darlow is set to stay and snub the interest from Manchester United by signing a new contract with Leeds.”

The publication adds that, according to an inside source, the experienced goalkeeper is “on the cusp of signing a new two-year contract with the Yorkshire giants.”

Should the deal go through, Manchester United are expected to turn their attention to alternative targets such as Nottingham Forest’s Angus Gunn and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Sam Johnstone, who previously came through the Red Devils’ youth ranks.