United close to signing new goalkeeper as experienced PL star decides to leave bitter rivals – The Athletic

Manchester United are on the cusp of striking a full agreement to sign goalkeeper Karl Darlow, it has been confirmed. Goalkeeping overhaul United’s goalkeeping department is set to undergo a radical overhaul this season. Andre Onana has already left, having sealed another season-long loan switch to Trabzonspor. He spent the 2025/26 campaign with the Super Lig club, who made it clear that they were keen on having him for another spell. It’s believed that the Cameroonian was eager to save his United career but opportunities would have been hard to come by due to the brilliant form of Senne Lammens. Altay Bayindir is also expected to leave after failing to secure himself a starting berth. He is attracting interest from the likes of Besiktas and Fenerbahce. Radek Vitek is another who appears guaranteed to part ways with United this summer. The Czech Republic youth international was on loan in the Championship last season with Bristol City. He performed well, scooping up the side’s Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year and the Young Player of the Year trophies. Hull City and Coventry City are two of the parties that have been credited with an interest in Vitek. Darlow emerged as a viable candidate for United, who are determined to prevent Michael Carrick from being understaffed in this key position. Now, The Athletic are reporting that Darlow is very close to joining United as a free agent from arch-rivals Leeds United. Darlow update Laurie Whitwell writes, “Manchester United are close to completing the signing of goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer.” “There are still finer points to sort but United are in advanced stages of bringing Darlow to the club. Senne Lammens needs support this coming season, with Altay Bayindir expected to leave.” “Everton also explored a move for Darlow, a 15-time Wales international. Another option for United was Sam Johnstone, who has two years remaining on his contract at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Johnstone, 33, started his career at United’s academy.” “United have wanted an experienced goalkeeper, ideally with Premier League pedigree and qualifying as homegrown, to help bring on Lammens and rotate as required with the club in the Champions League next season.” Darlow usurped Lucas Perri at the start of the year to become Leeds’ starting shot-stopper. He was crucial as the Yorkshire outfit survived the drop to secure their Premier League status. The 35-year-old kept five clean sheets in the 22 Premier League appearances that he made. Featured image Nathan Stirk via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!