Manchester City are set to bring back goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley in a £27 million deal. The 22-year-old England Under-21 international previously came through City’s youth system but left in 2023 without making a senior appearance.
Newcastle United had shown strong interest in Trafford earlier this summer. They had an opportunity to sign him before the Club World Cup. However, Manchester City were not planning a move at that time. The situation has since changed, and City have now matched Newcastle’s offer.
Trafford has agreed to a five-year contract with City. The deal also includes an option to extend for another year. He will join the club’s current goalkeepers, Ederson and Stefan Ortega, at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite recent rumors, Ederson has denied reports of his possible exit. He confirmed last month that the speculation was “fake news.” While Ortega may still depart, no transfer is currently close.
James Trafford began his journey at Manchester City’s academy at age 12. During his first spell at the club, he went on loan to Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers. He never featured in a first-team match for City.
At Burnley, Trafford experienced a tough Premier League season under former coach Vincent Kompany. He conceded 62 goals and lost his starting spot before the season ended. Despite the struggles, he impressed England manager Gareth Southgate and was named in the provisional squad for Euro 2024, though he was later cut.
Trafford bounced back under Burnley’s new coach, Scott Parker. He helped Burnley earn automatic promotion from the Championship, conceding just 16 goals in 45 games. The team narrowly missed winning the title, losing out to Leeds on goal difference.
With Trafford heading back to City, Newcastle must now search for another goalkeeper to support Nick Pope. Trafford’s return is City’s latest move to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.
Newcastle’s search for a new goalkeeper continues as Trafford slips away. Meanwhile, striker Alexander Isak’s potential exit adds to the club’s summer shake-up: Is Alexander Isak Leaving Newcastle United?
