Leeds United are reportedly monitoring Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford ahead of the summer.
Lucas Perri arrived from Lyon for a reported £15.6m, arriving on British shores with impressive pedigree.
However, it has been far from straightforward for the Brazilian at Elland Road. Having struggled with injury earlier on in the campaign, he has now been dislodged by Karl Darlow.
His replacement’s recent blunder against Arsenal underlined how it is currently a problem position for the Whites, who are now said to be eyeing a change at the end of the season.
James Trafford has been the understudy goalkeeper in the Premier League for Manchester City this season.placeholder image
James Trafford has been the understudy goalkeeper in the Premier League for Manchester City this season. | Barrington Coombs/PA Wire
Leeds United linked with Manchester City goalkeeper
TEAMtalk have claimed Leeds are admirers of Trafford, who is currently the understudy to Gianluigi Donnarumma at Manchester City.
The recruitment of a new goalkeeper is supposedly a top priority, with Leeds reportedly viewing a reliable stopper as crucial for their long-term safety in the Premier League.
However, prising Trafford from the Etihad Stadium may not be easy to do. Firstly, the Premier League giants only re-signed the 23-year-old from Burnley last year and he is well thought of at the club.
Secondly, the report has also credited Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur with interest in the former England youth international. Newcastle United, meanwhile, could reportedly revive interest having previously had the stopper in their sights.
James Trafford could potentially head to the World Cup with England this summer.placeholder image
James Trafford could potentially head to the World Cup with England this summer. | Bradley Collyer/PA Wire
Pep Guardiola’s praise
Trafford may not have seen much action in the Premier League this term but recently helped Manchester City progress into the Carabao Cup final.
He delivered a strong display in the second leg of the semi-final against Newcastle, drawing praise from manager Pep Guardiola.
James Trafford was key as Manchester City knocked Newcastle United out of the Carabao Cup at the semi-final stage.placeholder image
James Trafford was key as Manchester City knocked Newcastle United out of the Carabao Cup at the semi-final stage. | Martin Rickett/PA Wire
The Manchester City boss said: "I said from the beginning he is a top 'keeper. He has an incredible future ahead of him. He is going to play in the first Carabao Cup final for him.
"At 1-0 he made that first save, he is incredible. Today in modern football you have to have two exceptional 'keepers in the team because you never know what will happen. The 'keeper is a special position. He is an incredible guy, exceptional. I am so happy for him."