Farke breaks silence as Leeds close in on signing experienced Newcastle star; £400,000 fee agreed | OneFootball

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke

Leeds manager Daniel Farke has broken his silence on the potential signing of Newcastle goalkeeper Karl Darlow, suggesting he is a player they ‘need.’

The Whites are in the market for a new shot-stopper after Joel Robles left the club at the end of last season. Newcastle are happy to sell Darlow, so a deal is looking likely.

The 32-year-old has been a key player for the Magpies in the past but now finds himself behind Nick Pope and Loris Karius in the pecking order.

Darlow spent last the second half of last season on loan with Hull City, where he put in some excellent performances.

He made 12 Championship appearances for the Tigers, conceding only 14 goals and keeping five clean sheets. Now, it seems he could make a return to second-tier football this season.

According to Sky Sports News, Leeds are closing in on agreeing a deal worth £400,000 for Darlow. He is expected to take a medical with the Yorkshire club on Friday.

While Farke is keen to keep his cards close to his chest, the former Norwich City and Borussia Monchengladbach coach did open up on his admiration for the shot-stopper, who is leaving St James’ Park after nearly a decade with the Magpies.

“We’ll see,” Farke told Leeds Live. “So, my philosophy is always to speak about business when it’s really done. For that, I have too much experience. It is done when all is agreed, all is signed, and medicals are done.

“What I can say is that we definitely need a support in the goalkeeper position because yeah, (Joel) Robles has left. So we are a bit thin on this position, especially in terms of experience.

“And yes, Karl Darlow is definitely a good goalkeeper.”

Farke has a big task on his hands in rebuilding his Leeds squad in time for the start of the Championship season, which is in just one week.

Several of his players are expected to leave, with Willy Gnonto and Jack Harrison linked with Everton, while Tyler Adams is also expected to depart.

A new back-up goalkeeper is top of Farke’s priorities at the moment it seems. But Leeds are expected to bring in more players before the transfer window comes to a close.

For Darlow, a move to Leeds could be exactly what he needs to get more playing time. He is likely to be second-choice to Illan Meslier, though, despite the Frenchman also being linked with a departure.