Mick Brown: Leeds could pull plug on new signing after international star's superb performance

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(Credit: Imago) Tue 31 March 2026 17:00, UK Leeds United could pull the plug on their ambitions of signing a new goalkeeper if they cannot identify a significant improvement on Karl Darlow.The Elland Road club have been impressed with the 35-year-old’s performances both under Daniel Farke and more recently for Wales, and could stick with him.While it is still a big part of their plans to land a new goalkeeper this summer, they will not spend beyond their means and would be content heading into next season with Darlow.Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Leeds are discovering there is not an abundance of top-level goalkeepers available in the market.The arrival of Lucas Perri from Lyon last summer has ultimately been a failure, and while Leeds plan to enter the transfer market, they are wary of making expensive mistakes. 🔄 Leeds United Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Elland Road boardroom. VISIT THE LEEDS TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Leeds make new goalkeeper plan after Karl Darlow latestFootball Insider exclusively revealed last month that Farke is keen to sign a new goalkeeper as Leeds aim to upgrade on their current available options.The position remains high on their list of priorities, but with other positions also in need of strengthening, they are unlikely to get hung up on their pursuit.Leeds United StatsLucas PerriKarl DarlowPremier League Appearances1615FA Cup Appearances21League Cup Appearances01Minutes Played16501530Appearance stats for Leeds goalkeepers in 2025-26.

“Leeds have been looking to sign a new goalkeeper,” Brown told Football Insider.“When Karl Darlow has been in goal, he’s done a decent job for them for the most part. I watched the Wales game against Bosnia where he made an outstanding save, and he is still capable of pulling off that type of thing, he’s still a very solid goalkeeper.“But Leeds do have some doubts about him and they feel that’s a position they might have to upgrade in when the summer transfer window opens.“The problem is finding somebody who is going to be an upgrade on what they’ve already got, because there isn’t an abundance of options available.“And then if they do identify somebody, it’s about how much money it will take to bring him in.

Leeds aren’t in a position where they can spend silly money on players who don’t work out, they need to be smart and make sure they’re getting the right deals.“They’ll want to bring in more than just one player to strengthen their squad, so they can’t afford to spend loads of money on one player just for the sake of it.“If they can’t find a goalkeeper who fits that bill, one who is an upgrade and also affordable, they won’t be too concerned going ahead with their current options.“Darlow is an experienced goalkeeper and he’s doing a solid job, they’ll certainly be fine sticking with him if they’re not able to identify the player they want. Ideally, they would like to upgrade in goal, but it’s not the end of the world if they can’t.”Which goalkeepers are on Leeds’ radar this summer?Darlow and Perri have been Leeds’ two main goalkeepers this season, while Illan Meslier remains an outcast under Farke and has no place in his plans.As a result, Leeds have been scouring the market for potentially available shot-stoppers who would be an upgrade on their options at a reasonable price.Credit: ImagoFootball Insider revealed last month that James Trafford is on Leeds’ radar as he eyes a potential move away from Man City just one year after joining.The England international is unhappy at his role in Pep Guardiola’s side, where he has become the second choice to Gianluigi Donnarumma.However, Leeds will face competition from the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle and Tottenham, and could miss out as a result in another blow to their plans. 🚨 Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Leeds United Insider Access Get the full story from Elland Road and Thorp Arch with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of West Yorkshire.