Leeds United transfer boost as club drop out of race to sign Newcastle United man

Hull City have ended their pursuit of Karl Darlow with Leeds United and Bournemouth leading the race for the Newcastle United goalkeeper.

The 32-year-old is expected to end his nine-year association with the Magpies this summer in search of regular first-team football.

Darlow has made 100 appearances since making the move from Nottingham Forest but has largely played second fiddle to the likes of Martin Dubravka and Nick Pope.

It appeared a strong possibility Darlow would return to Hull on a permanent basis following his recent loan spell, however far greater interest has emerged from elsewhere.

Indeed, Premier League side AFC Bournemouth and recently relegated Leeds United are understood to be preparing a bid to Newcastle for Darlow.

As a result, the Tigers have accepted defeat due to the finances involved and according to Hull Live will prioritise signing attacking reinforcements instead.

Leeds are eyeing a goalkeeper in the likelihood that Illan Meslier leaves Elland Road. They’ve already lost Joel Robles after the Spaniard’s contract expired.

Any bid for Darlow could accelerate once former Norwich City boss Daniel Farke is appointed as Sam Allardyce’s successor.

In the absence of a manager, Nick Hammond, who briefly worked at Newcastle in December 2021, has helped shape Leeds’ summer transfer plans as an interim football advisor.

Middlesbrough and Blackburn Rovers have also registered an interest in Darlow.

Asides from Darlow, there is expected to be movement in Newcastle’s goalkeeping department.

While Pope remains No.1, Martin Dubravka could leave if the opportunity arises.

Meanwhile, United are still yet to announce if Loris Karius is staying at the club after he was offered a new contract. The former Liverpool goalkeeper’s contract expired on June 30.