Tag: James Trafford

Trafford pushes for Man City exit after Burnley promotion heroics

James Trafford
December 2025

Goalkeeper James Trafford is reportedly seeking a move away from Manchester City just months after rejoining, frustrated by a lack of minutes despite starring for Burnley last season, when he helped the Clarets win promotion with a record-equalling 30 clean sheets and miserly defence. City activated a matching clause to beat Newcastle to his signature after Burnley’s promotion, but the former England Under-21 keeper has since struggled to play, fuelling doubts over his future and prompting interest from clubs still searching for a reliable long-term number one.

Guardiola rotation shocks as City field near cup style side vs Leverkusen

Pep Guardiola
November 2025

Manchester City supporters were stunned to see Guardiola make ten changes for the Champions League meeting with Leverkusen, leaving Haaland on the bench and retaining only Nico Gonzalez from the weekend defeat at Newcastle, prompting jokes that the XI looked like a Carabao Cup lineup. James Trafford was recalled for his first start in a month and Omar Marmoush tasked with leading the line, turning the tie into a major audition for fringe players. After the 2-1 loss at Newcastle, the heavy rotation raised questions about rhythm, risk and Guardiola’s priorities.

Guardiola backs Trafford after Donnarumma usurps No.1 role

James Trafford (Manchester City)
October 2025

Manchester City re-signed James Trafford for up to £31m but quickly installed Gianluigi Donnarumma (~£26m) as starter after early errors. Pep Guardiola defended Trafford’s training level and hinted at rotation in domestic cups. With City chasing four fronts, Trafford’s pathway likely runs through Carabao and FA Cup minutes and injury/suspension cover. Selection logic: stabilise league/Europe with Donnarumma’s shot-stopping and aerial control while preserving Trafford’s development in lower-variance fixtures. Coaching emphasis: distribution under press and cross management. Performance triggers will dictate future league cameos. The keeper hierarchy remains fluid, but cup progress is key to safeguarding Trafford’s competitive minutes.

Trafford’s Agent in Talks as Donnarumma Links Grow

James Trafford (Manchester City)
August 2025

James Trafford’s agent has flown to Istanbul for talks with Besiktas amid speculation that Manchester City are targeting PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Trafford’s future at the Etihad is uncertain after a shaky start to the season. Signed back from Burnley this summer for £27m, Trafford started both of City’s games but struggled, including a costly error against Tottenham. Besiktas, managed by Solskjaer, are keen, while Guardiola eyes Donnarumma as a potential new No.1.

James Trafford Returns to Manchester City

James Trafford (Manchester City)
July 2025

Manchester City have re-signed 21-year-old goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley on a five-year deal with an optional sixth year. He will now compete with Ederson for the starting role at the Etihad.
Trafford said returning to City had always been his dream after joining the club at 12. City’s director of football praised his attributes and said he’s among the most promising young keepers in English football.

Manchester City Hijack Newcastle’s Trafford Deal

James Trafford (Burnley F.C.)
July 2025

Manchester City will re-sign James Trafford from Burnley after triggering their matching clause, nullifying Newcastle’s agreement. The fee is £27m, thanks to a sell-on discount.
Trafford, 22, left City for £14m in 2023. He’ll now compete with Ederson for the no.1 role under Guardiola. A five-year deal plus one-year option is agreed. Trafford has permission for a medical and rejoins City as a long-term investment.

Manchester City Want to Re-Sign James Trafford from Burnley

James Trafford (Burnley)
July 2025

Manchester City are in talks with Burnley to re-sign goalkeeper James Trafford, aiming to negotiate below their £40m buy-back clause. Trafford originally joined Burnley in 2023 and is now being pursued by multiple clubs.
With City showing renewed interest, Burnley would need a replacement if Trafford departs. City’s Stefan Ortega is among the names Burnley are evaluating. Newcastle have also previously shown interest in Trafford.

Newcastle Close in on Burnley’s James Trafford

James Trafford (Burnley)
June 2025

Newcastle are nearing a deal for England goalkeeper James Trafford, having already agreed personal terms. Final transfer fee talks with Burnley are progressing, with high confidence on both sides a deal will soon be struck.
Trafford, who recorded 29 clean sheets in the Championship, was a key target. Newcastle are accelerating negotiations and expect to finalize the signing shortly to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.

Newcastle Eye Burnley’s James Trafford in Summer Goalkeeper Reshuffle

James Trafford (Burnley)
March 2025

Newcastle United remain strongly interested in signing Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford ahead of the summer window as they prepare to overhaul their goalkeeping department.
Despite already having three senior keepers, manager Eddie Howe sees the 22-year-old—who has kept 27 clean sheets this season—as a long-term target. Man City hold a buy-back clause but aren’t expected to act on it.

POPULAR ARTICLES