THERE have been two fresh twists in the summer transfer battle for Newcastle United's Karl Darlow - with Hull City admitting defeat in their bid to sign the keeper, but Leeds United now showing an interest.

Darlow is one of the goalkeepers on Boro's radar this summer as Michael Carrick looks for a replacement for Zack Steffen.

Having spent the second half of last season on loan at Hull City, Darlow wants a permanent move this summer in search of regular football.

The 32-year-old was a top target for Liam Rosenior at the start of the summer after his successful loan spell with Hull, but the Tigers are now said to be looking elsewhere and prioritising new recruits at the top area of the pitch.

Leeds, however, are now said to have entered the race, with the Whites highly likely to have to replace Illan Meslier this summer. Meslier is expected to be one of the players leaving Elland Road on the back of last season's relegation from the Premier League, and with Joel Robles' contract having also expired at the end of last season, the Championship newcomers are in the market for at least one new keeper this summer.

Former Norwich City boss Daniel Farke is expected to be appointed as Leeds' new manager in the coming days. Despite the fact there's been uncertainty over their managerial situation in the early stages of the summer, Leeds did appoint Nicky Hammond as interim director of football last month, allowing them to progress with transfer plans.

READ MORE:

With Blackburn and Bournemouth also in for Darlow this summer, the keeper is now considering his next step. The priority for the experienced keeper - who has long been on Middlesbrough's radar - is first team football next season, but the fact a move to either Boro or Leeds would mean he wouldn't have to relocate is also likely to appeal.

Boro are set to make a big breakthrough in the summer transfer market this week, with Alex Gilbert and Rav van den Berg both set to join - and they look increasingly likely to be followed by in-demand Aussie winger Sammy Silvera, who is said to favour a move to Teesside.

Bringing in a keeper remains a priority for Boro, who currently have Liam Roberts and Sol Brynn on the books, with youngster Nathan Fisher part of the squad that has travelled out to Portugal.

Tabloid reports over the weekend claimed Newcastle could want as much as £5m for Darlow. If the Magpies look to drive a bidding war and Boro turn elsewhere, QPR's Seny Dieng is a target.