Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United have made Chelsea and Liverpool target James Trafford their priority heading into the transfer window.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United are looking to reinforce the goalkeeping position in the upcoming transfer window and they have identified Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford as their priority target. But, Eddie Howe’s team won’t find it easy with Chelsea and Liverpool also in the mix.
Trafford who was a part of the Manchester City youth ranks has attracted a lot of interest following his impressive rise. Since joining Burnley last summer, he featured in 28 matches for them in the English top flight. Things didn’t really go according to plan as he ended up conceding 62 goals and was benched for the final ten games.
Despite the poor start, there is no shortage of interest in his services. The 21-year-old is considered a huge prospect and clubs are looking to bring him back to the Premier League following the Clarets’ relegation. Chelsea and Liverpool are two English giants who have been linked with the former City goalkeeper.
Chelsea, Liverpool & Newcastle keen on Trafford
Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to leave Liverpool in the summer and the Merseyside club are looking for someone who can be their second choice in goal. Trafford could provide cover for Alisson Becker and eventually make a case for the number one position.
The Blues are also looking to add more quality in the goalkeeping position. They are not entirely convinced by Robert Sánchez and Djordje Petrovic who arrived at the club last season and are looking to add competition by signing the Burnley shot-stopper.
While Chelsea and Liverpool are keen on his signature, Newcastle United have made him their priority target for the summer. Eddie Howe wants more competition for current first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope. He feels Trafford could be a great addition to their ranks for the short as well as the long run.
He has the potential and could go on to do great things for them. The Magpies are all set to enter into talks with Burnley for the transfer of the player. With the Tyneside club pushing hard for his signature, it will be interesting to see how things pan out. Meanwhile, irrespective of the final fee of a potential deal, a move away from Burnley will see City earn 20% of the fee.
