Manchester United officially complete second signing of 2026/27 season

Manchester United have officially completed their second signing of the 2026/27 season as Michael Carrick continues shaping his squad ahead of the new campaign.

Much of the focus throughout the summer has been on midfield reinforcements.

The club recently reached a club-to-club agreement with Chelsea for Andrey Santos in a deal worth £48 million plus £2 million in add-ons.

That deal was officially announced earlier this month with the midfielder putting pen to paper on a permanent deal with the club.

United also agreed terms with Atalanta in late May over a move for Ederson but reports have suggested that a deal between the respective parties has stalled, putting the deal majorly at risk.

Attention has now turned elsewhere, with Manchester United confirming the arrival of experienced goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Manchester United confirm second signing

Manchester United have officially announced the signing of Darlow on the club’s official website following the expiry of his contract with Leeds United.

The 35-year-old signs until June 2028 and arrives to strengthen Michael Carrick’s goalkeeping department and provide experienced competition and support for Senne Lammens, who established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper last season.

Karl Darlow said, “I am extremely proud to sign for Manchester United. I’m joining an excellent group of goalkeepers and I’m really looking forward to all pushing each other to ensure that we maintain the highest standards, which this club demands.

“This is a really special opportunity; everyone can see what an exciting time it is for the club and I cannot wait to play my part in supporting my team-mates and helping to drive the group forwards.”

Jason Wilcox, director of football, said, “Karl has proven his ability to perform at the highest level, his work ethic and determined personality make him a really strong addition to our squad.

“We are delighted to add a player of his quality and experience to our excellent goalkeeping group.”

Karl Darlow becomes one of the few players to make the move directly from Elland Road to Old Trafford.

He follows in the footsteps of Rio Ferdinand, Gordon McQueen and Alan Smith.

The Wales international brings significant Premier League and Championship experience.

He has Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Leeds United during his senior career.

Last season he forced his way into Leeds’ starting XI midway through the campaign and remained their first-choice goalkeeper for the remainder of the season.

He helped the club secure Premier League survival with a 14th-place finish.

His arrival comes as Altay Bayindir prepares to leave Old Trafford, while Andre Onana has already agreed another loan move to Trabzonspor.

Tom Heaton recently signed a new one-year contract, with Dermot Mee also extending his stay, giving Carrick a well-balanced goalkeeping group ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Darlow’s experience and leadership are expected to prove valuable both on and off the pitch as Manchester United prepare for another busy season across multiple competitions.