Leeds United have muscled to the front of the conversation for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, with a deal advancing quickly.
Everyone has been asking for a couple of weeks: when will Leeds sign a goalkeeper?
Losing Karl Darlow was a blow, but it’s one that provides the 49ers with an opportunity for a major statement, signing someone as a superb long-term successor.
Leeds United advancing to sign James Trafford from Manchester City – David Ornstein
It always felt like James Trafford was the goalkeeper that Leeds were intent on signing, once his World Cup campaign with England came to an end.
So, progress has since followed with the 23-year-old deciding on his future. A host of updates have been shared on Thursday, with David Ornstein dropping a bombshell that United are in advancing talks with Man City over a transfer.
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There is work to be done at the time of writing, but Leeds – per various sources – are progressing nicely towards signing the Englishman.
Importantly, Ornstein also notes that previous potential suitors Newcastle United have now pulled out of a deal completely. It leaves Leeds with a much greater chance of securing a deal, as Aston Villa also looks unlikely, as they wait for clarity on Emi Martinez.
A key factor for Leeds is the guarantee of Trafford being the undisputed No1. Having been blindsided by Gigi Donnarumma’s Man City arrival, Trafford wasn’t pleased at being demoted so quickly.
“It wasn’t what I expected coming into the season,” he told the BBC back in February. “It’s the reality and I have to give it my best shot. It’s the situation I’m in. We train every day but making saves, it’s good fun.”
Importantly, Ben Jacobs has revealed that the Citizens want to be protected in selling Trafford to Leeds. He shares that Enzo Maresca’s side are wanting a release clause included in his Elland Road contract.
Exclusive: Leeds United closing in on deal for James Trafford. Player has indicated he wants to join.
Can also reveal the parties are discussing a release clause within fast-moving negotiations.
Newcastle United have not held any recent talks or placed a bid. Last conversations… pic.twitter.com/1qCRSbMlXM
— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) July 23, 2026
Leeds United will make massive Premier League statement landing James Trafford
Of course, supporting Leeds United has taught me not to get carried away before a player has officially signed. We’ve been burned far too often to become hasty when players like this are linked.
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However, this would be one of the biggest statement signings I’ve seen in my years following Leeds. Signing England’s No1-in-waiting would be remarkable business, and shows how serious we’re taking this summer.
Of course, with any deal comes stipulations like a release clause that allows Man City an expensive reunion.
But, Leeds are getting a huge upgrade in goal and a long-term solution. Should Trafford join and then move onto a ‘bigger’ club, we’re going to get paid nicely for it.
This is the sort of signing that makes you feel like Leeds are properly back. Feels nice.
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