Manchester United are close to signing veteran goalkeeper Karl Darlow, 35, on a free transfer following his departure from Leeds United at the end of June. The move matters because it addresses United's need for experienced back-up cover in goal ahead of the new season, as head coach Michael Carrick reshapes his goalkeeping options.

Darlow, currently Wales' first-choice keeper, made 22 Premier League appearances for Leeds last season under Daniel Farke. His arrival is expected to prompt the departure of Altay Bayindir, while young keeper Radek Vitek is also set to leave on loan or permanently after a strong spell at Bristol City. With 40-year-old Tom Heaton not having played first-team football since February 2023 and Senne Lammens the established first choice, United needed reinforcement. Should the deal be completed, Darlow will feature in pre-season, beginning against Wrexham in Helsinki on 18 July.