Newcastle United could well have a third chance to sign James Trafford this summer as he looks to leave Manchester City.
Indeed, Newcastle tried to sign Trafford in both 2024 and 2025, but he re-joined City from Burnley earlier this summer.
He’s set to be on the market this summer…. 🤑
A graphic asking the question: "How much would you pay to sign James Trafford this summer?"
Credit: Getty Images/Matt McNulty
However, his time at the Etihad Stadium could be a fleeting one. Newcastle are reportedly well-positioned to sign Trafford this summer, and a fresh update has emerged.
Trafford wants to leave Man City, the club want to keep him
It seems the two parties are at something of a disconnect.
According to the Manchester Evening News, City would like to keep the 23-year-old long-term.
However, the report suggests that Trafford himself is eager for a move, and that he will likely be granted one.
Do you think PIF have lost interest in Newcastle United? 🤔
Newcastle United chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan in the stands at St James' Park, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe looks to the ground
Credit: James Gill – Danehouse/Stu Forster via Getty Images
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Newcastle continue to be linked with a move for the England international, although they are not likely to be alone in their interest.
Nick Pope, of course, was dropped by Eddie Howe earlier this season, while there are doubts over whether Aaron Ramsdale will have his loan move turned into a permanent arrangement.
James Trafford playing for Manchester City against Tottenham Hotspur.
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Trafford stats compared to Nick Pope and Aaron Ramsdale
There is an obvious caveat that must be applied when comparing Trafford’s Premier League statistics compared to Pope and Ramsdale’s.
The City goalkeeper has only made three league appearances this season, while Pope has played 22 times. Ramsdale, meanwhile, has been handed nine outings.
Still, Trafford boasts a much better save percentage than both. His stands at an impressive 78.6%, while Pope’s is 69.1% and Ramsdale’s is 64.5%.
However, it’s worth remembering that Trafford has played key roles in City’s Carabao Cup success, as well as their journey to the FA Cup semi-finals.
Trafford thought he was joining Newcastle in the summer of 2025 and fans can hardly be blamed if they don’t want to go through another saga here.
If he is available, however, then that context must be removed. Newcastle could do a lot worse than signing Trafford.
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