Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Mon 18 May 2026 13:00, UK

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Karl Darlow was exceptional as Leeds United left it late to beat Brighton 1-0 at Elland Road on Sunday.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s 96th-minute strike was enough to seal the three points for the Whites, who could still finish in the top half if they beat West Ham on the final day.

Brighton had a number of chances throughout the game, but were continuously denied by the efforts of Darlow as chance after chance came and went.

Victory would have been huge in the race for European football, but Jean Paul van Hecke threw away even a point when his loose back pass was intercepted and converted by Calvert-Lewin.

Leeds transfer chiefs are thought to be in talks over a new deal for Darlow, with his contract entering its final weeks.

Karl Darlow reiterates his importance to Leeds

Football Insider exclusively revealed in February that Leeds want to sign a new goalkeeper this summer amid another season of uncertainty.

Last season, Illan Meslier had been the number one for almost the entirety of the season before a number of high-profile mistakes convinced Daniel Farke to hand the position to Darlow.

The Frenchman has not made a single appearance since, and will leave the club at the end of his contract this summer.

Upon promotion back to the Premier League, Leeds targeted a new number one and settled on Lucas Perri.

It has become apparent over the course of the season that the Brazilian was not the right option, and he is now stuck in the same situation Meslier was. Sitting behind Darlow, with a summer exit more than possible.

But the Wales international has more than proved his own importance. The 35-year-old made seven saves on Sunday and was full value for his clean sheet.

With his contract situation still outstanding and the likes of Tottenham reportedly circling, Leeds must ensure that action is taken imminently.

Leeds must ensure Darlow situation is not repeated

While Darlow’s impressive performances can only be a positive, there will be some frustration at Leeds that their perceived number two has worked his way back into the team for consecutive seasons.

The Whites will look for yet another number one this summer, and this time they have to get it right.

A different plan may even be orchestrated, with a future successor for the 35-year-old targeted while he plays out his final seasons.

One thing is for sure – Leeds must address Darlow’s contract situation before they are left needing to sign three new stoppers next season.