Manchester United are monitoring Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow and Wolves' Sam Johnstone as potential replacements for Altay Bayindir, who is expected to leave this summer in search of regular first-team football. The club's interest in both players is partly driven by their status as homegrown talents, which could help United meet Premier League squad registration requirements.
Homegrown Quota Concerns
Premier League rules mandate that at least eight players in a 25-man squad must be homegrown—defined as any player trained by a club in the United Kingdom for at least three years before their 21st birthday. While United currently have enough homegrown players to fill the quota, the uncertain future of Toby Collyer and the expected departure of Radek Vitek mean the club may need to sign another homegrown player to register a full 25-man squad for next season.
Darlow's Situation at Leeds
Karl Darlow, 35, ended last season as Leeds' first-choice goalkeeper. However, with Illan Meslier's departure from Elland Road, Darlow could continue in that role, making his availability uncertain. United are assessing whether the veteran stopper would be attainable this summer.
Johnstone's Potential Return
Sam Johnstone, 33, began last season as Wolves' first-choice goalkeeper but lost his place to Jose Sa in December and did not play for the remainder of the campaign. A former Manchester United academy graduate, Johnstone has amassed over 400 senior appearances and would provide a capable second-choice option. United have considered signing him in previous transfer windows.
Vitek's Future
Radek Vitek, a Czech Republic youth international, impressed on loan at Bristol City in the Championship and could serve as an excellent No. 2. However, the young goalkeeper is seeking regular game time at this stage of his career, prompting United to explore other options. The club has a history of selling homegrown goalkeepers, including Dean Henderson to Crystal Palace for £15 million plus £5 million in add-ons in 2023 and Matej Kovar to Bayer Leverkusen for €9 million (£7.78 million) in the same window.
