Manchester United have signed Karl Darlow for the second time this summer, with the goalkeeper joining on a free transfer from Leeds, with the Yorkshire side clearly left dissatisfied.
Karl Darlow joins Manchester United on a free transfer (Image: Getty Images)
Leeds have refused to name rivals Manchester United after goalkeeper Karl Darlow confirmed a move to Old Trafford. The Red Devils on Tuesday made the former Newcastle stopper their second signing of the summer.
He is expected to add competition to the club’s goalkeeper position, with Senne Lamence continuing to maintain his number one spot. Darlow spent three years at Elland Road, making 38 appearances before moving to Manchester.
When announcing his departure, the Yorkshire club even refused to name the Red Devils as his next employer, citing the sour relationship between the Red Devils and the Red Devils. A statement from Leeds said: “Leeds United can confirm that Karl Darlow has left the club at the end of his contract to pursue opportunities elsewhere.”
“Despite the offer of a new contract to remain in West Yorkshire, the goalkeeper wishes to explore other challenges and has left the Whites with the best of luck to everyone at Elland Road.”
The statement continued: “Karl, we would like to thank you for your dedicated contribution to Leeds United. We wish you and your family all the best for the future.”
Darlow, 35, is the latest in a long line of players to move from Leeds to Manchester, but it is his first move in 22 years. Gordon Strachan, Eric Cantona, Rio Ferdinand and Alan Smith are among the notable names who have made direct transfers between the two clubs.
After the transfer was confirmed, Darlow said: “I’m extremely proud to be signing for Manchester United. I’ll be joining a group of excellent goalkeepers and I’m really looking forward to working with all of us to ensure we maintain the highest standards this club demands.”
“This is a really special occasion and everyone can see what an exciting time it is for the club. I can’t wait to support my teammates and play my role in helping to move the group forward.”
Karl Darlow spent three years at Leeds United (Image: Getty Images)
United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, added: “Karl has proven his ability to perform at the highest level and his work ethic and determined personality make him a really strong addition to our team. We are delighted to be able to add a player of his quality and experience to our talented group of goalkeepers.”
Apart from Darlow, United also opted to add to their midfield options this summer after signing Andre Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa for a total of £85m respectively.
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