Leeds United goalkeeper subject of interest from Manchester United

Manchester United are assessing their goalkeeping depth ahead of the summer window, with plans already forming around the potential departure of Altay Bayindir.

The Turkish international is expected to move on, which has prompted internal discussions at Old Trafford about bringing in an experienced backup.

While Senne Lammens has established himself in the starting role, United are keen to ensure they have reliable depth behind him, particularly with a return to European competition adding to the fixture load.

Karl Darlow considered by Manchester United

According to The Athletic, one name being considered is Karl Darlow, who is set to become a free agent after an impressive spell with Leeds United.

The 35-year-old has rebuilt his reputation over recent seasons, featuring prominently in the 2025-26 campaign and making 22 Premier League appearances as Leeds secured their top-flight status.

His performances saw him briefly displace Lucas Perri and underline his value as a dependable senior option.

Darlow’s journey at Elland Road has been far from straightforward.

Initially brought in as experienced cover following his arrival from Newcastle United in 2023, he spent periods as a backup while Illan Meslier remained first choice.

However, strong form across two seasons eventually saw him force his way into the starting role, where he finished the most recent campaign as Leeds’ primary goalkeeper during a critical run of fixtures.

Another alternative under consideration is Sam Johnstone, currently at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The 33-year-old came through Manchester United’s academy system and remains highly regarded internally due to his familiarity with the club’s structure and his homegrown status.

Johnstone still has two years remaining on his Wolves contract, meaning a deal would require negotiation, unlike the free transfer opportunity presented by Darlow.

Both options appeal to United from a squad-building perspective, as each player would contribute to the club’s homegrown quota, an increasingly important factor in Premier League and European squad registration rules.

That element adds further value to experienced domestic-based signings who can provide stability without occupying key foreign player slots.

Competition for such profiles is expected, with Tottenham Hotspur also understood to be monitoring the market for an experienced goalkeeper this summer.

That could influence the pace of negotiations as clubs look to secure reliable depth options early in the window.