Karl Darlow to be given 'coaching role' at Man United after joining from Leeds

Karl Darlow is likely to have been signed for his wealth of knowledge to help train Manchester United's younger talents.

That is according to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider that the goalkeeper is likely to "spend a lot of time coaching" next season.

After turning down a new contract with Leeds United, with the club unable to promise him a starting role, the 35-year-old signed across the dotted line at Old Trafford.

He is one of three signings under Michael Carrick so far, joining Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, but arrives as the oldest out of the trio.

It is understood that Darlow will help fulfil the Red Devils' homegrown quota in the Premier League next term, but he will bring more than just that to the table.

Senne Lammens, undoubtedly, will be first-choice, with Tom Heaton third-choice, so it is highly likely that the Wales international replaces Altay Bayindir on the bench.

Karl Darlow backed for important role at Man United

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson explained that, rather than bring up an academy youngster to the first team, Darlow will help develop those players instead.

"The clubs generally feel that in certain positions, and goalkeeper's definitely one of them, you need experience," he said.

"And I think it's partly because these second-or-third-choice goalkeepers tend to also effectively spend a lot of time coaching and working with a younger goalkeeper as well.

"It's not the same as a junior. I just think there's too much risk. Certainly, United have always done that with their reserve goalkeepers.

"They've always brought in experience, and maybe also in United's case, because Lammens is a relatively young goalkeeper, they probably think it's even more important to have experience in reserve."

Which goalkeepers could be given a chance next season?

Man United are competing in multiple competitions during 2026-27, which may open the door to Darlow doing more than just training the next generation.

Amongst those characters could be Radek Vitek, though it seems far more likely that the 23-year-old will be sent out on loan once again.

At Under-21s level, United have Dermot Mee, Adrian Janusz and Will Murdock, to name just a few, with multiple keepers all battling for a senior debut.

With Darlow's help, the Red Devils will be hoping to discover a future shot-stopper within their own ranks, rather than rely on the transfer market and the splashing of cash in years to come.