Leeds United refuse to even MENTION Man United in a 309-word statement announcing Karl Darlow is leaving them to sign for their rivals – after he turned down contract offer

Manchester United have made goalkeeper Karl Darlow their second signing of the summer – but old grudges die hard for rivals Leeds United.Darlow has joined United as a free agent after leaving Leeds at the end of last season and signed a contract until June 2028 with the option to extend it for another year.Leeds say Darlow, 35, was offered a new contract at Elland Road but ‘wished to explore a different challenge’. In a 309-word statement they did not even mention the name of their old rivals in Manchester.Alan Smith was the last player to move from Leeds to United – back in May 2004 – and the decades-old rivalry between the two clubs remains strong.Wales international Darlow has previously played for Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Hull City, making over 279 appearances including 74 in the Premier League. Manchester United have made goalkeeper Karl Darlow their second signing of the summerDarlow’s arrival follows confirmation on Monday that United have signed Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea for £50million.He will provide back-up and competition for United’s first-choice Senne Lammens, with veteran Tom Heaton making up the goalkeeping group after signing a new one-year deal.Altay Bayindir, who has been No 2 to Lammens and Andre Onana, is now set to leave Old Trafford. Onana has already agreed a new loan deal at Trabzonspor to play at the Turkish club for a second season.’I am extremely proud to sign for Manchester United,’ said Darlow. ‘I’m joining an excellent group of goalkeepers and I’m really looking forward to all pushing each other to ensure that we maintain the highest standards, which this club demands.’This is a really special opportunity; everyone can see what an exciting time it is for the club and I cannot wait to play my part in supporting my team mates and helping to drive the group forwards.’United’s director of football Jason Wilcox added: ‘Karl has proven his ability to perform at the highest level, his work ethic and determined personality make him a really strong addition to our squad. We are delighted to add a player of his quality and experience to our excellent goalkeeping group.’Leeds’ full statement read: ‘Leeds United can confirm Karl Darlow has left the club upon the expiration of his contract to pursue an opportunity elsewhere.’Despite the offer of a new deal to remain in West Yorkshire, the goalkeeper wished to explore a different challenge and leaves the Whites with the best wishes of everyone at Elland Road.’The stopper linked up with Daniel Farke’s side ahead of the 2023/24 season, making his debut in a League Cup victory over Shrewsbury Town.’The following campaign, Darlow starred in the final seven Sky Bet Championship encounters. United won six of those, culminating in the second-tier trophy being lifted at Plymouth Argyle on the last day of a record-breaking year. Darlow has joined United as a free agent after leaving Leeds at the end of last season’It was in that same term when Karl made his international debut, following in the footsteps of his grandfather by representing Wales. His maiden outing came in a 2-1 victory over Montenegro away from home. He now has 15 full caps for the Dragons, establishing himself as Cymru’s number one.’With Leeds United back in the Premier League, the keeper featured 22 times in the top-flight and his fine form was recognised as he collected April’s Save of the Month award for his outstanding stop to deny Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Ladislav Krejci from point-blank-range in April.’Throughout his time in West Yorkshire, whether starting in goal or providing competition to the goalkeeping ranks, Karl has been an exemplary professional and has also dedicated countless hours to the ongoing community work delivered by the Leeds United Foundation’s initiatives.’The 35-year-old departs Elland Road having made 38 appearances for the Whites, playing an important role in the team’s 2024/25 Sky Bet Championship title-winning season and helping the club retain their Premier League status with survival last term.’Thank you Karl for your dedicated service to Leeds United, we wish you and your family the best for the future.’