Reds eye Karl as Hendo likely to depart club
NEWCASTLE goalkeeper Karl Darlow and Watford custodian Daniel Bachmann are under consideration by United as a back-up signing to offset the expected departure of Dean Henderson.
Darlow, 31, has been suggested to United by Newcastle in a potential exchange with Henderson, who is hopeful of joining Eddie Howe’s side.
Former Nottingham Forest goalie
Darlow is aware of discussions but is currently on a post-season holiday. Darlow played twice against United last season, saving a Bruno Fernandes penalty in Newcastle’s 4-1 home defeat.
Bachmann, 27, played 12 times in the Premier League for Watford this term and has started 13 times for Austria since making his debut last year.
United are open to installing Tom Heaton as their second-choice goalkeeper, depending on the calibre of ‘keeper they recruit.
Heaton, 36, rejoined United last year on the assumption he would be their No.2 ‘keeper but he only appeared once as a substitute in the Champions League group stage draw with Young Boys.
Sources close to Henderson say United have been the ‘stumbling block’ amid his desire for a move elsewhere after only three appearances in 2021-22.
The 25-year-old has no issue with leaving United permanently but the club have never sanctioned a permanent sale and indicated a preference for a loan deal with Newcastle.
A delay to Henderson’s departure is due to United’s desire to have a replacement lined up.
Lee Grant, United’s fourth-choice ‘keeper last season, announced his retirement on Thursday.
United and Newcastle discussed a swap deal involving Henderson and Martin Dubravka in the January transfer window but Dubravka rejected the move and it collapsed.
Dubravka played in all of Newcastle’s remaining games of the season and the club have now suggested Darlow in a mooted loan swap.
Darlow and Henderson are contracted to their clubs until 2025.