James Trafford is set to decide his Manchester City future after the World Cup.
Newcastle United could find themselves in the middle of a transfer tussle for long-term target James Trafford.
As many as four Premier League clubs are understood to be expressing interest in the England international. Alongside the Magpies, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United have kept tabs on Trafford’s situation at Manchester City.
Etihad chiefs would be open to granting Trafford’s wish of securing first-team football elsewhere. However, perhaps more interestingly, Aston Villa are another club keen on his signature.
Johan Manzambi saga
Newcastle were dealt a bitter blow last week when Villa won the race to sign Swiss international Johan Manzambi. A fee with Freiburg had been all but agreed but the Magpies always feared a potential hijack due to the deal being delayed.
This mirrored the Victor Munoz saga that saw Toon officials jet to the US to conclude a transfer only for Liverpool to swoop in at the final hour. However, as it stands, Villa are yet to finalise the Manzambi deal, with some sources suggesting not to rule the Magpies out completely.
Newcastle United stance
Newcastle like Trafford - that much is clear. They have targeted the 23-year-old for three consecutive summers and came within a whisker of signing him last year.
It was previously understood that Newcastle viewed the move to be a non-starter. But the consensus has shifted despite signing Ewan Jaouen last month.
Trafford is keen to explore a potential exit if he can secure first-team football. The goalkeeper publicly opened up about his frustrations this season after a 2-0 win over Salford City in February.
While Newcastle want Trafford, a problem could arise over his wages. He would likely need to take a slight hit on his £100,000 per week pay packet at Man City.
For now, there will be little movement on Trafford's future until after the World Cup. England face Argentina in a mammoth semi-final tonight, with a potential final against Spain on Sunday.
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