Report: Leeds United lead Aston Villa in race for Karl Darlow

Leeds United have reportedly stolen a march on Championship rivals Aston Villa in the race to sign Newcastle United goalkeeper Karl Darlow.

Both teams are eager to bring in a new number one for the second half of the season and also have eyes on Burnley's Tom Heaton.

Newcastle appear willing to let Darlow leave on loan next month, as the 28-year-old has been used just once in all competitions this term due to the form of Martin Dubravka.

Football Insider reports that, while Villa are in the running to sign the ex-Nottingham Forest stopper, Leeds are the side leading the way to land his signature.

Darlow, formerly on the Villans' books as a youngster, is said to have already held talks with Marcelo Bielsa's side via his representatives.