Leeds United have officially announced the departure of goalkeeper Karl Darlow, who leaves the club at the end of his contract after turning down a new deal. Reports indicate that the proposed contract did not include assurances of being the first-choice goalkeeper. The 35-year-old has now joined Manchester United, where he will serve as a back-up option.

Darlow moves on in search of a fresh challenge and received appreciation from the club for his contributions during his time in West Yorkshire. He joined Daniel Farke’s team ahead of the 2023/24 season and made his debut in a League Cup victory against Shrewsbury Town.

He later featured in the final seven matches of the following Championship season, winning six of them, as Leeds United secured the second-tier title at Plymouth Argyle on the last day of what proved to be a record-breaking campaign.

During the same season, Darlow earned his first cap for Wales, following in the footsteps of his grandfather. He started in a 2-1 away win against Montenegro and has since gone on to make 15 appearances for his country, establishing himself as Cymru’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Upon Leeds’ return to the Premier League, Darlow made 22 appearances in the top flight and earned the Save of the Month award for April, recognised for a remarkable close-range stop to deny Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Ladislav Krejci.

Over the course of 38 appearances, Darlow was commended for his professionalism and his involvement with the Leeds United Foundation. He played a significant role in the club’s 2024/25 Championship title triumph and contributed to their successful bid to remain in the Premier League the following season.

Leeds United had long intended to bring in another goalkeeper. With Illan Meslier having been sold to Arsenal and Darlow now departing, Daniel Farke will currently rely on Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns until a new signing is completed.