Manchester United have secured the signature of goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a two-year contract, with the club holding an option to extend the deal by a further season.

The 35-year-old Wales international arrives at Old Trafford following the expiration of his contract at Leeds United, where he had been the first-choice keeper under manager Daniel Farke. Darlow turned down an offer to remain at Elland Road, choosing instead to make the move across the Pennines.

Leeds United confirmed his departure in a brief statement, carefully avoiding any direct reference to their rivals: "Leeds United can confirm Karl Darlow has left the club upon the expiration of his contract to pursue an opportunity elsewhere. Despite the offer of a new deal to remain in West Yorkshire, the goalkeeper wished to explore a different challenge and leaves the Whites with the best wishes of everyone at Elland Road."

Darlow's role at Old Trafford

Darlow is expected to serve as backup to first-choice goalkeeper Senne Lammens for the upcoming season. With Lammens taking a three-week break following Belgium's World Cup campaign, Darlow is set to feature prominently in Manchester United's pre-season preparations, which kick off against Wrexham in Helsinki on 18 July.

His arrival is also expected to accelerate the departure of Turkey international Altay Bayindir, who nearly completed a move to Besiktas in the January transfer window.

Darlow brings considerable experience to the squad, having made 279 club appearances across his career and earned 15 caps for Wales.

"I am extremely proud to sign for Manchester United. I'm joining an excellent group of goalkeepers and I'm really looking forward to all pushing each other to ensure that we maintain the highest standards, which this club demands."

— Karl Darlow