Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Sun 17 May 2026 19:10, UK

Karl Darlow’s Leeds United contract is set to expire at the end of the season, but that may have to change.

When the Premier League campaign began, Darlow becoming the Whites’ number one may not have been anticipated by supporters.

The arrival of Lucas Perri between the sticks had looked to end the Peacocks’ issues in net, but instead the Brazilian has only added to the problems.

Darlow continued to impress with his performances under Daniel Farke as Leeds secured a 1-0 win in their final game of the season at Elland Road.

Now, Leeds have an easy contract decision to make ahead of the summer window, and here is exactly why.

Karl Darlow shines for Leeds United against Brighton

Leeds snatched a late win against Brighton, but it would not have been possible if not for the heroics of Darlow in the net.

The Welshman was fairly active throughout the match, with the Seagulls creating plenty of chances, but ultimately found no way through them.

The 35-year-old made seven saves throughout the match, preventing 0.89 goals. Additionally, his short-range distribution was top-notch, misplacing just one of 11 passes.

It also marked his fifth clean sheet in 21 appearances this season for the Elland Road side. Darlow was one of Leeds’ top performers against Brighton.

When it comes to the summer window, Leeds will be needing another goalkeeper, with question marks around Perri and Illan Meslier also set to leave upon contract expiry.

However, they could solve some of their problems by keeping Darlow, who has proved himself as a top Premier League goalkeeper since returning to the starting lineup.

Lucas Perri to seek exit out of Leeds United

Perri will be looking on and feeling that his time as Leeds’ number one has come to an end. It is hard to see how he could make his way back after Darlow’s performances.

The Brazilian may have to already leave the Whites in the summer, and with the Elland Road outfit needing a goalkeeper anyway, the Welshman staying and Perri leaving may be the wisest option.

Time will tell what decision is made, but hopefully over the next few weeks some contract news for the 35-year-old begins to emerge.

He deserves an extension to his deal as he has been a key figure in Leeds’ Premier League survival this season.