Newcastle United are thought to be considering a third swoop for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.
Newcastle United reportedly remain in the hunt for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.
It was no secret that the Magpies came close to signing the England international last summer. Toon chiefs had all but agreed a deal to bring Trafford to St James’ Park - only for Man City to activate a buy-back option minutes before the deadline.
This was the second time Newcastle missed out on Trafford, with Eddie Howe wanting to sign him the previous summer. For this reason, the Magpies have been sceptical about making a third approach.
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Third time lucky for James Trafford?
Newcastle were understood to have moved on to other targets to avoid a repeat situation. However, various sources now indicate that Trafford - highly regarded on Tyneside - could become a target again.
The 23-year-old has impressed when called upon in domestic cup competitions. He saved Mohamed Salah’s at the weekend - while keeping a clean sheet in a commanding performance - to fuel speculation about his future.
In February, Trafford candidly told the media that he did not expect to be a substitute for most of the season. Just weeks after arriving, Man City pushed to buy Gianluigi Donnarumma - viewed by many as the world’s best goalkeeper.
“It wasn't what I expected coming into the season,” Trafford said. “I tried to guard against it. 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.”
Pep Guardiola stance on James Trafford
Pep Guardiola has never resisted players from joining rival clubs. High-profile exits during his tenure at the Etihad include Cole Palmer, Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus.
The Spaniard views preventing transfers due to rivalry as a sign of a “small” club. Guardiola said in 2023: “From my point of view, I give my opinion to the club but after that the club has to decide if the transfer is good for both sides and for the player. But never ever (has it been an issue). I think that means you are a small club.
“Big clubs make decisions for the benefit of all three parties: players, both clubs – and agents sometimes. It’s not a problem. So if they want to go to Chelsea or (Manchester) United, Liverpool or whatever, what is the problem?”
On Trafford’s future, Guardiola left the door open for a potential exit earlier this season. He said: "He's an incredible keeper. Unfortunately for him, Gianluigi is the first-choice keeper but he is an incredible keeper.
"I know the position of the keeper is so special and during the year in one game you can change. The keeper position is special. He is with us and will be with us this season and after we will see what happens."
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