Why Everton's Karl Darlow interest could answer Leeds United's biggest transfer question
Karl Darlow's next step amid interest from Everton will tell us a lot about Leeds United's transfer plans.
The Wales international has been offered a new deal at Elland Road after starring in last season's Premier League survival.
Darlow climbed the ranks to become Daniel Farke's first choice between the sticks.
He kept five clean sheets in 22 Premier League appearances and landed the Premier League's Safe of the Month against Wolves in April.
However, Darlow is now officially a free agent following the expiry of his Leeds contract on Tuesday.
That has opened the door for fellow Premier League teams to pounce, with Everton now among them as a fresh update is shared.
Everton not alone in Karl Darlow interest
Darlow's status as a free agent understandably makes him an attractive prospect for other clubs.
Manchester United have been linked with Darlow, while Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that Everton are also showing an interest.
It is reported that Everton want to prove fresh back-up to Jordan Pickford, with Mark Travers currently occupying that role.
The decision Darlow makes on his future could answer a key question when it comes to Leeds' own transfer business.
Darlow would be making a backwards step in joining Everton as things stand, given he would be going from first choice to a back-up.
However, it may not be as straightforward as that.
Leeds in market for goalkeeper of their own as two options emerge
Leeds have themselves been linked with a new goalkeeper this summer.
Jacob Widell Zetterstrom of Derby County is on Leeds' radar, as is Parma's Zion Suzuki.
Suzuki, who started for Japan at the World Cup, will not come cheap as he is reportedly valued at around the £26million mark.
If Leeds do go all out to sign Suzuki, he will not be arriving to play second fiddle.
Instead, he will be first choice with Darlow, if he stays, used as a back-up once again.
Should Darlow therefore make a switch to Everton, it would suggest Leeds are indeed looking to bring in a player of Suzuki's stature.
Darlow, once hailed as "terrific" by Steve Bruce, would therefore be fully justified in deciding to move elsewhere.
Where he ends up, whether at Elland Road, at another Premier League team or elsewhere, it should prove an answer as to what Leeds are planning next.