Leeds United transfer link with international player questioned amid future uncertainty by Karl Darlow

Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paul Robinson has cast doubt on Karl Darlow’s future at Elland Road amid transfer rumors involving Rotherham United’s Viktor Johansson.

The Whites are said to be interested in bringing the 25-year-old to the club in the summer, with the Millers relegated to League One. Despite conceding 89 goals throughout the campaign, the Sweden international has been one of Rotherham players.

Johansson is expected to have played his last game for Rotherham and end his time at the New York Stadium with a win over Cardiff City on Saturday. He is said to have a release clause of around £730,000 and has previously been linked with a move to Elland Road.

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Illan Meslier continued to establish himself as the number one under Daniel Farke, playing 46 times in all competitions, registering 18 clean sheets in the process. But the latest transfer links have thrown Karl Darlow’s future into question.

The 33-year-old, who joined from Newcastle United in the summer after spending the previous season on loan with Hull City, has made two Championship appearances this term, netting back-to-back wins against Preston North End and West Brom. Christmas time.

Speaking to MOT Leeds, Robinson admitted that if Leeds were to complete a deal for Johansson, it would raise questions over Darlow’s future at the club. However, he believes the current number one, who has Premier League experience in his favour, will retain his starting spot if the Swede arrives in the summer.

“With just one cap for Sweden, he’s a decent goalkeeper but I don’t think he’s at Meslier’s level,” he said.

“If they sign him as competition for him, then maybe there are questions about Karl Darlow’s future if he stays at number two.”

Should Johansson arrive at Elland Road, it seems unlikely that he will be handed the No.1 shirt instantly, especially given that Meslier has proved a reliable option in Farke’s first season in charge. It also raises the question of whether the 25-year-old would like to play the role of backup goalkeeper.

The capped Swedish international has shown his qualities in the Championship this term. Among the shot stoppers in the division, Johansson was one of the best, making the most saves per 90 minutes in the division (4.1) and conceding the most goals per 90 minutes (1.9) .