It’s no secret that Leeds United need a new goalkeeper this summer.
The Whites and Karl Darlow could not come to terms on a contract extension. So, the Welshman signed for our bitter rivals Manchester United instead.
Lucas Perri is the subject of interest himself. Reports suggest Torino are seemingly keen on handing the Brazilian an escape route from West Yorkshire.
United have also been linked with multiple new ‘keepers this summer. Without a doubt, everyone’s dream signing would be James Trafford, and Leeds’ chances of signing him may have just gone up.
Newcastle eye James Trafford alternative
If Trafford leaves Manchester City as most expect him to this summer, there will not be a shortage of clubs vying for his signature.
One of the clubs who, alongside Leeds, are said to hold an interest in Trafford is Newcastle.
However, according to the latest report from Chronicle Live, the Magpies could be set to turn their attention towards another ‘keeper, who Leeds are also said to be interested in, Zion Suzuki.
The report states that Suzuki’s camp has been in touch with Newcastle over a potential move. Trafford is said to remain their first choice, but if Newcastle do step up their pursuit of Suzuki, this will only be good news for Leeds.
Having one of their Premier League rivals out of the race for Trafford ultimately means it is more likely that the sought-after shot-stopper, who is currently away with the England squad for the World Cup, will end up at Elland Road.
Newcastle have also previously sent their scouts to watch Suzuki. So if it means Leeds can sign Trafford, hopefully Newcastle can get a deal done for the Japanese international.
Another advantage Leeds have over Newcastle in James Trafford race
Leeds are far and away a much bigger club than Newcastle. But you cannot argue that Newcastle have been far more successful recently.
Under Eddie Howe, they have featured in the Champions League multiple times, gone deep in cup competitions, and even won the League Cup back in 2025.
But for all the good work they have done in recent years, it looks to be falling apart.
Alexander Isak notably left them last summer. This summer, Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali have followed him out the exit door. Bruno Guimaraes could also be the latest to follow suit.
There is also mounting pressure on Howe from sections of the fanbase. All of this, in combination, could work in Leeds’ favour.
Surely the fact that they could enter next season without arguably their four best players in recent years will put Trafford off a potential move to the North East.
When it comes to recruitment, Newcastle are also being humiliated on a regular basis, being snubbed by their transfer targets for fellow Premier League clubs over the course of the last few windows.
At this moment in time, Leeds are a far more stable project than Newcastle.
Newcastle could certainly rebuild and maybe push for Europe. But it is equally as likely that all of this chaos hampers them drastically next season.
Hopefully, all of this noise around Newcastle discourages Trafford from making the move there.
Then it will be on the 49ers to sell Leeds United to one of the most exciting goalkeeping prospects around.
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