Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Wed 20 May 2026 19:10, UK

Leeds United should keep Karl Darlow at Elland Road ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

The Wales international’s current contract at the Whites expires at the end of the season, but Adam Pope wants him to be given an extension.

After the goalkeeper’s latest heroics in the 1-0 against Brighton & Hove Albion at home, the BBC Sport journalist believes the 35-year-old has proven everyone wrong at the West Yorkshire outfit, having taken back the number one spot.

The veteran shot-stopper has been a key player in the Peacocks’ fight for survival this season and keeping him around would be a no-brainer.

Daniel Farke’s faith in Darlow has paid off in LS11, but what the future holds for him remains to be seen.

Karl Darlow only reliable goalkeeper at Leeds United

Speaking on the Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet podcast on 18 May, Pope said, “In my opinion, you have to give him a new deal. His distribution [against Brighton] was absolutely amazing. He’s pinging balls across the park. He’s been excellent, and yes, I’m not saying he was content to be number two, but he knew he was coming into the season as number two, which was harsh. He’s seen off everybody.

“Absolute credit to him and to keep motivated and credit to the coaching staff and manager as well, but for him personally to enhance his career when he started on the back foot at the start of the season. Incredible. He’s made so many point-saving or match-winning saves.”

Leeds signed Lucas Perri last summer with hopes that he would replace Illan Meslier as the long-term first-choice goalkeeper.

After some underwhelming performances in the Premier League, Farke decided to drop the Brazilian shot-stopper in favour of Darlow.

While the 28-year-old former Olympique Lyon star has had some decent displays in the FA Cup, it’s hard to see him being reinstated as the number one in the English top flight.

With Darlow arguably the only reliable option at the German manager’s disposal, his contract extension should be a priority at Elland Road.

Daniel Farke prepares for new goalkeeper signing at Elland Road

Meslier looks to be on his way out of Leeds, and with Perri’s struggles, signing a new shot-stopper may be on Farke’s agenda.

The German manager wants to see the Whites clearly show ambition in the coming months and the addition of a quality shot-stopper would certainly help them climb further up the table.

Darlow has exceeded expectations at Elland Road in recent months, but most fans in LS11 recognise the need for a new number one.

Manchester City’s James Trafford could potentially be an option for the West Yorkshire outfit, but only time will tell what 49ers Enterprises have in store for the summer.