Newcastle United are among the clubs interested in Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford,
Chelsea have reportedly shown interest in Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford but look set to pursue another target.
And that will come as potentially good news for Newcastle United, who have Trafford top of their transfer wish list.
The 22-year-old was set to sign for the Magpies in June last year, only for the plug to be pulled when it became apparent Nottingham Forest would demand the signing of Odysseas Vlachodimos in return for the PSR-satisfying swindle which saw Elliot Anderson move to the City Ground.
Trafford agreed personal terms over a switch to St James’ Park and that “verbal pact is still valid” according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano. However, Newcastle recognised that a deal is more difficult to do this time around.
United had a free run at a player seen as the future England No.1 last summer, they don't this, with a steady queue of admirers forming. A transfer that was set to cost £20million has now increased towards the £30m mark.
It comes after Trafford enjoyed a record-breaking campaign to help Burnley earn promotion from the Championship as runners-up. He kept 19 clean sheets and conceded just 16 goals, including 12 consecutive clean sheets between December and March.
Chelsea make James Trafford enquire but are set to look elsewhere
According to The Guardian’s Jacob Steinberg, Chelsea have enquired about Trafford but note that “firmer interest is coming from Newcastle”. Instead, the Blues are advancing in their efforts to sign AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, as per Romano.
Romano wrote on X: “EXCLUSIVE: Chelsea approach AC Milan to sign Mike Maignan as new goalkeeper. Mike Maignan has still not signed new contract at the club and Chelsea are now aware of the situation. He’s always been high on Chelsea list with clubs in talks, decision up to Milan.
“More on Mike Maignan and Chelsea exclusive story. Understand contacts have started also with Enzo Maresca appreciating the French goalkeeper as ideal option for his tactical approach. Chelsea are on it, and the manager has approved Maignan as a key target.”
James Trafford on his future
Trafford is currently away with England preparing for upcoming matches against Andorra and Senegal. He addressed his future when asked last month.
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The Carlisle-born goalkeeper said: "I've got an incredibly good circle around me. It's very small but it's incredibly good. When the season ends I'll go on holiday and relax from football and then I'll start getting ready for the national team in the summer.
"I don't go on my phone too much. I'm not naive enough to say I don't see any of the noise around me but it doesn't bother me. Whatever happens will happen. I've done all I can this season."
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