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James Trafford | Getty Images
Wolves boss Rob Edwards will be looking to bring in some new signings in the January transfer window
Wolves’ new head coach Rob Edwards has the opportunity to bring in some new signings in the January transfer window. The former Watford and Luton Town man will want to put his own stamp on his newly inherited squad. He has left his position with Middlesbrough in the Championship to take the top job at Molineux.
Wolves eye Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford
Wolves are interested in Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford this winter along with Newcastle United, according to TEAMtalk. The stopper made the switch to the Etihad Stadium in the summer from Burnley. However, he has since struggled for game time.
Edwards’ side may struggle to get him though due to their league position. They are eight points from safety at this moment in time. One source has told TEAMtalk: “James wants guarantees of game time, but above all he wants to play for a club pushing upwards, not one looking over its shoulder.”
Trafford, 23, rose up through City’s academy ranks and was a regular at various different youth levels as a youngster. He was loaned out to Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers to get some experience under his belt in the Football League. Burnley then snapped him up on a permanent basis and he went on to make 73 appearances for the Clarets in all competitions.
The ex-England youth international helped Scott Parker’s side win promotion from the Championship in the last campaign along with Leeds United and Sunderland. He then left Turf Moor to re-sign for Pep Guardiola. The Cumbria-born man has since made only five outings for the North West club, three of which have come in the league.
What now for Wolves target James Trafford at Manchester City?
It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Trafford leave City on loan. He is unlikely to get into their starting XI ahead of Gianluigi Donnarumma. Therefore, a temporary exit would help him get some regular minutes.
Wolves could see him as someone to battle it out with Sam Johnstone and Jose Sa for their number one spot. It is no secret that they need to stop conceding so many goals. Despite the fact they could guarantee him a starting position, they may struggle to land the ‘keeper’s signature though amid competition from Newcastle.
Trafford hasn’t been able to become City’s first choice which has stalled his development a bit. He remains under contract until June 2030 but his immediate future is up in the air right now. After his move in late July, he said: “Rejoining City is such special and proud moment both for me and my family. I always dreamed that one day I would be able to come back to Manchester City. This is the place I call home – it’s a truly special football club with fantastic people who make it such a unique place to work and play.”
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