The Whites have been linked with a move for the Newcastle United shot stopper.
Leeds United are reportedly closing in on their first summer signing with versatile Chelsea youngster Ethan Ampadu set to sign at Elland Road. It’s a positive development with the Wales international also capable of playing in the heart of midfield – an area where Daniel Farke’s squad is lacking options.
In addition, the Whites have also been given a boost when it comes to their pursuit of a goalkeeper. Leeds have been linked with a move for Newcastle United shot-stopper Karl Darlow, with Illan Meslier and Joel Robles’ future at the club uncertain.
The Spaniard is yet to return to training having been invited back, while Meslier has only just returned to training after an extended break following his international duties. The Whites desperately need to strengthen their options between the sticks, with former Magpies ‘keeper Freddie Woodman also tentatively linked.
Middlesbrough, Hull City and Bournemouth have all been linked with a move for Darlow, who featured for Eddie Howe’s side in their opening game of pre-season against Gateshead FC at the weekend. However, Boro’s signing of Seny Dieng from QPR and Tom Glover’s arrival from Australia means a move for Darlow is now unlikely.
Hull City, where Darlow spent the second-half of last season on loan, had been keen on a return for the 32-year-old this summer, but Tigers’ boss Liam Rosenior says his side have been priced out of a move.
“I don’t think Karl is someone that will be joining us,” Rosenior told the Hull Daily Mail. “Karl is someone who I loved working with, he’s an outstanding goalkeeper but the price that Newcastle are speaking about is something we can’t do this summer.
“I’m disappointed, but that’s football. My job is to give this football club the best squad possible. Can we be successful without Karl Darlow?
“One hundred per cent, so we move on. We have targets in the goalkeeping area. Matty Ingram gives me so much confidence, I’m not going to panic into signing a goalkeeper and we’ll keep working on our targets.
“You have lists and you work through your targets. You have your number one target, two and three. It’s the same thing that every club goes through and we’re working on those targets at the moment.”
