West Ham’s biggest headache this season has been their defence.
Conceding the second-most goals in the Premier League has left Nuno Espírito Santo’s side flirting with relegation, despite a late-season resurgence.
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While Axel Disasi’s January arrival has helped steady the backline, issues remain — and the Hammers have now reportedly identified the man they believe can fix the problem.
West Ham Plotting Trafford Move
James Trafford. (James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
James Trafford. (James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images)
West Ham United are understood to be preparing a summer bid for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, sources at Sports Boom report.
The young English shot-stopper returned to the Etihad last summer with high expectations, but limited first-team opportunities have left him frustrated and open to a move elsewhere.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching and competition for England’s goalkeeping spots intensifying, Trafford’s situation is delicate — and West Ham are ready to step in if City are willing to sanction a transfer.
West Ham Struggling in Goal
Alphonse Areola. (REUTERS/Peter Powell)
Alphonse Areola. (Peter Powell)
Although Trafford’s chances at Manchester City have been limited, he has impressed whenever called upon, with Pep Guardiola describing him as a “fantastic” and “reliable” keeper.
Bringing him to London Stadium would immediately address one of Nuno’s longstanding problems. Alphonse Areola continues to concede at an alarming rate, while the summer arrival of Mads Hermansen from Leicester has so far failed to make an impact.
A summer swoop for Trafford would represent a major coup — but first, West Ham must secure their Premier League status. There’s no way a goalkeeper of his calibre would join a club dropping into the Championship.