NafisaManchester United’s summer planning is already beginning to take shape behind the scenes, with the club actively exploring options to strengthen key areas ahead of the new campaign, particularly in the goalkeeping department.
At Old Trafford, there is a growing sense that changes are unavoidable between the posts. With a squad transition ongoing under the INEOS-led project, recruitment decisions are being made with both immediate depth and long-term stability in mind.
The current goalkeeping setup already feels like it is in a state of flux. While some players are being tied down for continuity, others are edging closer to the exit door, creating space for new arrivals to be targeted as the club reshapes its hierarchy.
Senne Lammens, Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are the three senior goalkeepers in the current Man Utd squad.
Lammens is the number one goalkeeper for Man Utd manager Michael Carrick, while Heaton has just signed a new deal.
However, Bayindir is very likely to leave Man Utd for the Turkish Super Lig, while Heaton is 40 now.
Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed that Man Utd are planning on Bayindir’s exit this summer.
Now, attention has turned towards potential reinforcements who can support and compete within the squad, and one familiar name from the Premier League has now entered the conversation.
According to The Athletic, Man Utd are now ‘considering a move’ for Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow.
The report in the reliable publication has claimed that the Premier League giants, who will play in the Champions League next season, want Darlow to provide cover and competition to Lammens.
The former Newcastle United goalkeeper’s contract at Leeds expires at the end of the month, and sources have told TEAMtalk that Leeds have already put a new deal before the 35-year-old, who ended the campaign as Daniel Farke’s No.1.
Sam Johnstone is also on Wolves radar:
Darlow’s importance at Leeds over the second half of the 2025/26 season should not be underestimated, as he played a key role in helping Daniel Farke’s side secure their Premier League status for another year.
The experienced stopper made 22 Premier League starts during the campaign and delivered a series of standout performances, including a remarkable save against Wolves’ Hugo Bueno, which went on to be named Premier League Save of the Month for April.
TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, reported on May 19 that Leeds plan to offer Darlow ‘ a short-term contract extension this summer’.
Sources have indicated that Leeds highly value his presence within the dressing room, not just for his performances on the pitch but for his leadership behind the scenes.
A source close to Leeds have told us: “Karl has been immense this year.
“Not only has he performed at a high level when called upon, but he’s been a real glue in the group.”
Darlow is not the only goalkeeper on Man Utd’s radar, though.
Sam Johnstone is Wolves is also ‘an option’ for Man Utd, according to The Athletic.
The 33-year-old brings a wealth of top-flight experience, having spent several seasons in the Premier League.
With Wolves now operating in the Championship following relegation, a move to Manchester United to serve as a backup option behind Lammens could represent a more attractive proposition for Johnstone than remaining in the second tier of English football.
Nafisa
