By admin 
According to journalist Graham Smyth, Leeds United may conclude a deal for Newcastle goalkeeper Karl Darlow before the squad flies to Edinburgh for a pre-season friendly against Hearts.
Smyth said on the Inside Elland Road podcast that Leeds could finalize the move before their match against Hearts in Scotland on June 30.
It was also stated that Leeds were unconcerned by Bournemouth’s interest in Darlow, and that advanced talks to lure the goalie to the club were now underway.
Speaking to the Inside Elland Road podcast on 26 July, Smyth reported: “Leeds are in advanced talks with Newcastle for him [Darlow]. The Bournemouth thing last week, where it looked like he was going to go to Bournemouth… Leeds were pretty unconcerned.
“The stance was ‘it’s not done yet’ and they obviously felt they were still in with a very good chance. As it happens, Bournemouth are getting the guy from Inter [Radu] and Leeds are going for Darlow.
“I would expect that to happen now, it’s heading in the right direction. Perhaps they can get that done before they travel to Edinburgh this weekend.”
A conclusion at last
This move, as with any transfer that turns into something of a saga, has felt like it has dragged on all summer. In reality, it has only been a couple of weeks since Leeds were first linked to Darlow, but the move finally looks like it will reach its conclusion this week.
Leeds have been targeting goalkeepers this summer as they look to strengthen between the posts, with a move for Bayern Munich goalkeeper Alexander Nubel also on the cards but Stuttgart appears to be the preferred destination for the German.
The Yorkshire club will be pleased to have rebuffed Premier League interest in Darlow, as it demonstrates the club’s pulling power despite their newfound second-tier status.
If Darlow arrives before this weekend’s pre-season match, he will have plenty of time to adjust to his new surroundings, new people, and new style of play before the Championship season begins in August.
In other Leeds United news, a German club is interested in the club’s star as the financial aspect of his contract aligns.