Aston Villa are part of the running for James Trafford ahead of the summer, with Leeds United and Newcastle United also interested.
According to Football Insider, James Trafford could have many suitors lining up moves in the summer window. The Manchester City backup keeper has found life frustrating at the Etihad since his summer move, and subsequently went behind Gianluigi Donnarumma, as Aston Villa are the latest to enter the chase alongside previously interested Leeds United and Newcastle United.
Newcastle United made a big push to sign James Trafford from Burnley in the summer, before the stopper chose to make a return to Manchester City. At the time, Pep Guardiola’s side needed a new No.1 and paid £27 million to re-sign the player from the Clarets.
However, the late availability of Gianluigi Donnarumma pushed Manchester City to sign the Italian, which has since pushed Trafford into a role of backup role. The former Burnley stopper had dreams of making it to the England squad, but given his lack of game time, he may miss out on the boat in the summer.
Trafford is ready to leave Manchester City in the summer, while reports were linking him with an exit back in January. The club showed no interest in letting him leave, as they instead allowed Stefan Ortega to join Nottingham Forest. Given the need to play regularly, James Trafford could consider his options in the summer, as there are a host of clubs looking to sign him.
Newcastle United are still interested in the Englishman, as they are probably thinking about adding Trafford at the expense of on-loan keeper Aaron Ramsdale. Leeds United were also keen and will certainly look to strengthen their ranks should they stay up in the Premier League, although the two clubs are facing the threat of Aston Villa.
Aston Villa favourites to sign James Trafford?
Given that Newcastle United and Leeds United have established keepers in their ranks, should Aston Villa enter the race, they might have an edge. The future of Emiliano Martinez is up in the air, with the Argentine expected to leave next summer, which may open the door for Trafford to stake a claim to the No.1 spot.
Moreover, Aston Villa are expected to play in Europe next season, and replacing Martinez would require quality. James Trafford could be a solid acquisition, and if Villa make their move for the player, they might be seen as the favourites for the reasons explained above.