Manchester City are reportedly in the running for James Trafford and may activate their buy-back clause for the goalkeeper, as Newcastle United await developments.
Fabrizio Romano indicates that Manchester City has joined the pursuit of James Trafford this summer, potentially foreseeing changes in their goalkeeping lineup. Pep Guardiola’s team holds a buy-back clause in the contract of the 22-year-old, currently at Burnley, which has thus far hindered Newcastle United’s efforts to secure him.
Trafford has garnered significant attention in the goalkeeper market this summer, with various clubs keen on acquiring his services. After impressing in the Championship with Burnley, a move away from Scott Parker’s squad seems plausible as several prominent clubs are monitoring his situation.
The buy-back clause was included when Manchester City sold James Trafford to Burnley, and it now appears Guardiola is interested in bringing him back. City seems prepared to offload one of their current goalkeepers, Stefan Ortega or Ederson Moraes, this summer. Ederson has shown openness to a move, with Galatasaray expressing interest, while Ortega is unwilling to accept a backup role at this point in his career.
Manchester City has reached out to relevant parties to explore potential arrangements, positioning it as a straightforward buy-back situation. However, this has so far stalled Newcastle United’s ambitions to sign Trafford, even though they remain active in the hunt.
As for James Trafford, he might weigh his future based on the role he is offered at his next club. There’s a possibility he could stay at Burnley, where he would continue as the undisputed No.1, although the Clarets cannot promise Premier League stability for the next season. Meanwhile, Newcastle United continues to pursue Trafford but may need to wait for Manchester City’s decision regarding the goalkeeper. The Magpies are prepared to meet the financial demands to land Trafford, though both clubs involved seem poised to offer competitive roles rather than guarantees of a No.1 position.
