Aston Villa are one of the sides showing an interest in Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider.
Trafford made the move to Man City in the summer of 2025, but his situation rapidly changed after they opted to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain shortly after. The former Burnley goalkeeper had other options in the market, but opted to join Man City with the hope of becoming their number one.
Trafford has barely featured during the 2025/2026 season, and it wouldn't be a surprise if he decided to already search for a fresh opportunity later this year.
Aston Villa Eye 'World-Class' Goalkeeper
James Trafford Burnley
According to Football Insider, Aston Villa are eyeing a move to sign Manchester City goalkeeper Trafford ahead of the summer transfer window. The English goalkeeper is attracting interest from multiple Premier League clubs, which is no surprise given his current situation at the Etihad Stadium.
Trafford has played just three times in the Premier League this season, and considering how impressive he was in the Championship last term, with Burnley boss Scott Parker labelling him 'world-class', it's perhaps not the situation he expected to find himself in.
Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has been regularly linked with a move away from the Midlands club in recent years, and Trafford could be the ideal replacement.
Trafford already has the ability to play at Premier League level, and at the age of 23, he's got plenty of years in him to continue developing. The England international must be incredibly disappointed not to be playing regularly with a World Cup fast approaching.
Trafford Speaks Out on Man City Situation
james trafford
Speaking out on his current situation at Man City, Trafford admitted that he was left in the dark about the future signing of Donnarumma when he arrived at the Etihad Stadium.
"I didn't expect the situation to happen, but it’s happened, so you just get on with it."
Trafford also dropped a slight hint that he could move on, refusing to rule out a departure from Pep Guardiola's side.
"I've obviously got a contract. I don't know what happens next season. I just know that I'll just take it a day at a time and try and improve."
Trafford was speaking after City's FA Cup clash against Salford City, where the goalkeeper was given a rare start between the sticks.
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Would Trafford be a Smart Signing for Aston Villa?
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With Trafford now linked with a move to Villa Park, GIVEMESPORT asked ChatGPT to give their verdict on why it would be a smart signing for the Midlands club.
Succession planning: James Trafford is 22, homegrown and high-ceiling. If Emiliano Martinez leaves, Villa avoid a reactive scramble and secure a long-term No.1 with resale value.
Ball-playing profile: Trafford is comfortable in build-up, proactive off his line and suits a higher defensive block — attributes aligned with Villa’s controlled-possession phases under Unai Emery.
Strategic asset management: Even with Martínez staying short-term, Trafford raises internal competition and protects against market volatility in the goalkeeper position.