Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford reportedly prefers joining Aston Villa instead of Newcastle United this summer in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Football Insider, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are interested in James Trafford. The two Premier League clubs are keen on reinforcing their first-team squads by signing a goalkeeper in the summer transfer window. So, the 23-year-old Manchester City shot-stopper has emerged as a target for them.
The latest report has revealed the Englishman’s preference, as he is prioritising joining Aston Villa instead of Newcastle United in the summer transfer window. With Aston Villa better-placed to offer European football next season, Trafford’s decision makes sense as he looks to finalise a move away from Manchester City.
How has James Trafford fared since returning to Manchester City?
James Trafford rejoined Manchester City from Burnley in a deal worth £27 million last summer after establishing himself as one of the world’s best young goalkeepers in an excellent 2024/25 season. The 23-year-old was instrumental in a memorable campaign for Burnley, barely conceding any goals in the EFL Championship. That compelled Manchester City to re-sign the youngster.
However, Trafford has fallen in the pecking order after Manchester City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day of the summer transfer window. The English goalkeeper has managed only 990 minutes of game time in 11 appearances thus far for Manchester City. So, a summer exit may be on the cards for him, with Newcastle United and Aston Villa vying for his signature.
Move across the Premier League on the cards?
James Trafford has been on Newcastle United’s wishlist for a long time, and they wanted to sign him before he rejoined Manchester City last summer. The continued interest makes sense, as Nick Pope is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of his career. Additionally, it is unclear if Aaron Ramsdale will complete a permanent move to St. James’ Park. So, Trafford is a viable target for Newcastle United.
As for Aston Villa, Emiliano Martinez’s long-term future is uncertain, as recent reports have linked him with Inter Milan. So, the West Midlands outfit must plan for life after the Argentine international, with Trafford emerging as a target. The latest report has revealed that Aston Villa will be in an advantageous position to sign the 23-year-old Englishman in the summer transfer window.
The latest report has revealed that Trafford is prioritising joining Aston Villa instead of Newcastle United in the summer transfer window. With Aston Villa better-placed to offer European football next season, the English goalkeeper’s decision makes sense as he looks to finalise a move away from Manchester City.