Credit: Imago

Josh Edwards

Thu 23 April 2026 19:10, UK

Leeds United have reaped the benefits of recalling Karl Darlow to the starting 11 this season.

Goalkeeping concerns have lingered at Elland Road for several seasons now, and each time the Whites have been forced to turn back to Darlow.

Neither Illan Meslier nor Lucas Perri have done anywhere near enough to warrant a starting spot under Daniel Farke, with both of them having been linked with exits over the past 12 months.

When called upon, Darlow has fared well for Leeds, especially in the Premier League this season.

However, with Darlow out of contract this summer, the Whites must avoid falling into a recent bias trap that could scupper their summer plans.

Karl Darlow deserves new deal at Leeds, but terms must be right

Darlow has played a crucial role in Leeds’ having all but secured safety in the Premier League with five games to go, but it would be a lie to say that his season has been flawless.

The Wales international has done the basics well, but it remains clear that the Whites still need to improve in that area of the pitch.

Speaking on the Don’t Go To Bed Just Yet podcast, Kaiser Chiefs bassist Simon Rix said: “It’s about working out exactly how that contract looks, but I think you’ve got to.

“He’s been reliable and good. I think it’s just whether you go out and get another one, and you’ve got to, haven’t you?”

If Leeds were to offer a new deal to Darlow, it would have to be with the view of him being a backup option to a new arrival in the summer, as opposed to being their first choice.

Recent performances may suggest that he has what it takes to be their number one next season, but that is a trap that they must avoid at all costs.

Darlow form may spell the end for Lucas Perri

Lucas Perri has shown some signs of improvement in recent weeks, but he still finds himself behind Darlow in the pecking order, and if a new goalkeeper were to arrive, he would find himself out of the matchday squad.

It was reported earlier this year that the Brazilian will not be sold, but that stance may change if Darlow does enough to earn a new deal.

Several goalkeepers have been linked with Leeds; it will just be a case of who and when, as opposed to whether at this stage.