Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford is reportedly eager to join Newcastle United in the winter transfer window, even though the Clarets are reluctant to sell him.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, James Trafford is the subject of interest from Newcastle United. The Magpies are scouring the market for a goalkeeper as they prepare to sell Martin Dubravka to Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab. While Burnley would prefer not to part ways with the English goalkeeper, he is keen on joining the Tyneside outfit. So, the Clarets will demand around £20 million to part ways with him.
James Trafford and his career so far
James Trafford has established himself as one of the best young goalkeepers in the world since joining Burnley from Manchester City in July 2023. A native of Greysouthen, the Englishman spent his formative years in his homeland, passing through the academies at three clubs and graduating from the youth division at Manchester City.
However, Ederson Moraes’s status as the first-choice goalkeeper meant Trafford would not have received regular game time at Manchester City. But, the 22-year-old endured a baptism of fire in his debut season with Burnley, with the Clarets struggling to remain competitive in the Premier League.
Trafford has shown his class this season, keeping 16 clean sheets in 25 EFL Championship outings while conceding only nine goals. Meanwhile, the English goalkeeper’s stock in the market has soared, with several well-known Premier League clubs vying for his signature. Newcastle United are among his prospective suitors this month.
Premier League return on the horizon?
Newcastle United considered signing James Trafford in the summer transfer window, but the deal failed to see the light of day. The continued interest is understandable, considering Martin Dubravka is closing in on joining Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab after sealing an agreement on personal terms.
So, Trafford has emerged as a viable target for Newcastle United, with a winter approach on the cards. The Englishman has boosted the Tyneside outfit’s prospects of securing his services. The Burnley goalkeeper was keen on joining Newcastle United in the summer transfer window before the deal failed to see the light of day.
Meanwhile, the Clarets do not want to part ways with the English goalkeeper, although they will likely demand £20 million for him if push comes to shove. Coughing up £20 million might not be an issue for Newcastle United. So, it will be interesting to see if the 22-year-old arrives at St. James’ Park this month.
