Everton Enters the Karl Darlow Sweepstakes as Leeds Tries to Keep Him

Leeds United thought they had a pretty clear path to keeping Karl Darlow around. Then Everton called.

Darlow’s contract expired on Tuesday, and while Leeds have been in talks about an extension, nothing’s been signed yet. That’s opened the door for other clubs to make their pitch. According to Sky Sports, Everton is one of them.

The Toffees want another goalkeeper behind Jordan Pickford and Mark Travers. Darlow fits the profile — experienced, doesn’t cost a fortune, knows the league. It’s a low-risk move for a team that doesn’t need a starter but could use someone reliable when injuries pile up.

Manchester United is also reportedly in the mix. They’ve got a need for a veteran backup behind Senne Lammens, who arrived last year for £18 million. Both Altay Bayindir and Andre Onana could be out the door. Onana is expected to go back to Trabzonspor on loan, and if Bayindir leaves, United will be thin at the position. Darlow would give them a steady option without having to spend big.

Darlow’s rollercoaster season at Leeds

The 35-year-old started 22 of Leeds’ 38 Premier League games last season. That’s a lot for a backup when you think about it. He lost the job to Lucas Perri over the summer but got it back earlier this year after Perri made a couple of rough errors against Manchester United and Newcastle. Those mistakes opened the door, and Darlow walked right through it.

Now Leeds has some uncertainty in goal. Perri is the only senior option under contract. The club is believed to have a verbal agreement with Alex Cairns, and Illan Meslier is a free agent. Arsenal has shown interest in Meslier as possible cover for David Raya, so that’s another piece in motion.

Darlow has to decide pretty soon. Leeds wants him back and has offered a deal. But with Everton and Manchester United circling, he’s got options. For a 35-year-old homegrown Wales international, this might be his last chance to lock in a multiyear deal at a decent club. He’s not going to rush it.

The goalkeeper carousel in the Premier League is always unpredictable. One injury changes everything. Darlow knows that better than most.