OFFICIAL: Man Utd complete second summer signing

Updated: 14 Jul 2026 13:06 BST | 5 min read

Matthew Judge | Editor

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Manchester United have completed the signing of goalkeeper Karl Darlow following his exit from Leeds United.

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The 35-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year contract with the Red Devils, with the option to extend by a further year.

Darlow was available on a free transfer after leaving Man Utd’s fierce rivals Leeds upon the expiration of his contract.

Current ETV

Karl Darlow

ETV Range

€0.6M - €0.8M

The Wales international has become the first player since Alan Smith in 2004 to make the switch from Leeds to Man Utd.

In an official statement on their club website, Leeds thanked Darlow for his three years of his service, but they did not mention Man Utd.

Leeds, who also revealed Darlow turned down their offer of a new contract, accompanied the statement with a picture of the goalkeeper with his back turned.

The statement read: “Despite the offer of a new deal to remain in West Yorkshire, the goalkeeper (Darlow) wished to explore a different challenge and leaves the Whites with the best wishes of everyone at Elland Road.

“Thank you Karl for your dedicated service to Leeds United, we wish you and your family the best for the future.”

Darlow joined Leeds from Newcastle United in July 2023 and made 38 appearances for the club, with 24 of them coming in last season’s successful Premier League campaign.

The Whites finished 14th in the top flight last term and also reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup under manager Daniel Farke.

Darlow becomes Man Utd's newest recruit following Santos' arrival

Darlow has become Man Utd’s second signing this week after Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea on Monday.

Welcoming our new recruit 🤝 pic.twitter.com/I1K5bVv79i
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 13, 2026

The 22-year-old Brazil international has inked a five-year contract with the Old Trafford club after a €58million (£50m) fee was agreed with Chelsea, as per widespread sources.

In their own statement announcing Darlow’s signing, Man Utd did mention Leeds by name.

Expressing his delight at joining the 20-time league champions, Darlow told the club’s official website: “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.

Introducing the newest member of our GK union: @KarlDarlow 🤝🇾🇪
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 14, 2026

“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.”

Man Utd director of football Jason Wilcox added: “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.”

Darlow is expected to provide competition for No. 1 goalkeeper Senne Lammens, while Altay Bayindir’s future at Man Utd remains up in the air amid interest from clubs in Turkey, according to The Athletic.

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