Newcastle United have reignited their interest in Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. (Photo credit: Getty Images)placeholder image
Newcastle United have reignited their interest in Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. (Photo credit: Getty Images) | Getty Images
Newcastle United failed in consecutive summers to sign James Trafford but his move to Manchester City has not worked out.
James Trafford is reportedly pushing for a Manchester City exit in January as he seeks regular first-team football.
Newcastle United were on the brink of completing a £27million move for the goalkeeper over the summer. It is no secret that the Magpies chased Trafford for two years as the long-term solution between the sticks.
However, at the 11th hour, Man City activated a buy-back option to thwart Newcastle’s advances. Burnley ultimately had no choice but to allow Trafford a dream return to the Etihad.
James Trafford nightmare
However, the fairytale has swiftly become a nightmare. Trafford was brutally axed by Pep Guardiola just three Premier League games into the season after an error against Tottenham Hotspur.
To make matters worse, City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma, arguably the world’s best goalkeeper, as his replacement. The Italian is only 26 - ramping up fears about Trafford’s position at the club.
On the move again?
TeamTALK claim Trafford is panicking about his situation at Eastlands and could be on the move again. The report suggests the 23-year-old is concerned he faces a "wasted year” at Man City.
An initial loan deal with the potential of a £25million permanent has been mooted. The goalkeeping area has proven somewhat of a conundrum for Eddie Howe in recent weeks.
Once the Trafford deal failed, Newcastle moved to sign Aaron Ramsdale on a season-long loan. Nick Pope has kept his spot between the sticks but blips against West Ham United and Brentford have raised doubts.
If Trafford becomes available, expect the Magpies to register their interest. Guardiola has remained supportive of the shot-stopper when grilled by the media.
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‘Future England No.1’ - Pep Guardiola
"Only I can say we are delighted he is here," Guardiola said about Trafford last month. "He will have to be ready in case we need him in the Premier League or Champions League. We have an incredible keeper (who will be) England No. 1 sooner or later."
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