According to Graham Smyth, a Leeds United Karl Darlow move could still be on the cards as the club are in “advanced talks”. The keeper would likely take the starting berth at Elland Road, with Illan Meslier potentially moving elsewhere. Fabrizio Romano also believes the player is “expected to join”.
Leeds United Karl Darlow Move Potentially on with Club in Advanced Talks
What is a Leeds United Karl Darlow Deal Likely to Look Like?
Graham Smyth’s tweet indicated that the Whites are looking at the Newcastle United stopped on a permanent deal. After an impressive showing at Hull City in the second half of last season, claiming Darlow on a permanent deal would be an impressive move that sets the club up for a more active transfer window.
Goalkeeper is one of the more worrisome positions at Elland Road, with Illan Meslier’s high level of potential and youth potentially causing him to push for an exit. This is coupled with Joel Robles’ exit for free after his contract with Leeds expired, leaving just Kristoffer Klaesson as a keeper with senior minutes.
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What This Means for Daniel Farke
Regardless of fan opinions of the move, the Whites’ manager Daniel Farke is sure to see this as a positive step. On The Square Ball’s Phil Hay Show, it was noted that Farke hasn’t been happy with movement in the window thus far. Locking down one of the main positions that the team is sure to be reliant on is a step in the right direction.
Other positions where the club currently look weak include centre-forward, where the only recognised number nine with significant experience is Patrick Bamford, and left-back. The side’s only options in that position are Leo Hjelde, a youngster who spent last season out on loan, or playing Cody Drameh out of position. Central midfield and centre-back also look weak, with a lot of work to be done in the two weeks before the season.
Illan Meslier’s Future
This move firmly puts Meslier’s future in doubt. Whilst the keeper is a star for France’s youth sides, a poor run of form last season is sure to have tarnished his reputation across Europe’s top divisions. Meslier could look for a move to rebuild his previous acclaim, but any move is likely to be permanent due to the fact the Whites are only allowed to loan out one more player under FIFA rules.
One slight issue for the Elland Road hierarchy is that the club may be leaving money on the table in comparison to a potential sale last season. The relegation has caused a serious dent in both the player’s confidence and his value, with Leeds likely having to accept a suboptimal pricetag. Although they are likely to profit on the initial investment of just £5 million made in Marcelo Bielsa’s second season with the Whites, it still leaves a financial hole in comparison to expectations.
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Image courtesy of Joe Blackburn, licensed to Sports Events Guide.
