Leeds set to launch bid for Newcastle United man - chairman has already confirmed interest

Leeds United and Bournemouth are battling it out to sign Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

The 32-year-old is expected to leave St James’ Park this summer, nine years after joining from Nottingham Forest, having fallen down the pecking order.

As per Sky Sports News’ Keith Downie, both Leeds and Bournemouth are ready to table an offer for Darlow, who is also wanted by Middlesbrough.

Hull City vice-chairman Tan Kesler confirmed his club’s interest in re-signing Darlow last month but looks set to miss out. Darlow spent the second half of last season on loan at the MKM Stadium.

“I’ve been speaking with Newcastle and Karl as well,” Kesler told Hull Live. “Karl’s intention is to come and stay with us, but it’s not a secret that Middlesbrough and other clubs are interested in signing him.

“That’s due to his personality, his achievements in the past and because of that, Newcastle have given him a very good contract which is something above Championship’s affordability.

“We’re trying to be creative and find ways to bring him on board. Neither Middlesbrough nor any other club without parachute payments can afford his full wages.

“We’re all in the mix, we would like to have him and we have spoken to him and he would like to come. Ideally, we would like to generate a creative solution both for Newcastle and us, but we’re in discussions at the moment.”

Darlow has made 100 appearances for Newcastle. Spells as a first choice golakeeper have been few and far between having largely played back up to the likes of Martin Dubravka and Nick Pope.