Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have opened talks to sign Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford ahead of next season.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City are in the market for a new goalkeeper and they have their eyes set on Burnley’s James Trafford. Pep Guardiola’s team have already initiated talks with the newly promoted Premier League club as they look to re-sign the English goalkeeper.
Trafford was a part of the Manchester City youth setup back in the day. He went up the ranks and even got promoted to their first team. But even before he could make his debut for Guardiola’s team, the 22-year-old ended up joining Burnley in search of regular first-team action.
While he couldn’t help them survive in the English top flight during his debut campaign, the young stopper certainly played his part as they secured an immediate return to the Premier League. He was involved in 45 league games last season and only conceded 16 goals.
City want to bring Trafford back to the club
Trafford managed to keep 29 clean sheets, and his sensational work hasn’t gone unnoticed. City have taken note of his performances and are now keen on bringing him back to the club.
The Manchester-based giants are looking to add more quality in the goalkeeping position, and they believe Trafford could be an ideal addition to their squad for the long run.
They have already started holding talks with Burnley over a potential transfer. While his contract runs until 2027, City do have a buy-back clause worth £40 million. However, they are holding talks with a newly promoted club as they want to negotiate a lower fee than the clause.
While City are keen on his signature, much will depend on a potential departure in his position. Both Ederson and Stefan Ortega have been linked with moves away from the club, and if either leaves, it would create room for the 22-year-old’s return.
