James Trafford is the name high on Chelsea’s shortlist of Robert Sanchez replacements, as the club plans to revamp the goalkeeping position.
Chelsea could make a firm decision on their goalkeeping situation as Robert Sanchez could be shown the door in what may appear to be a revamp in the summer. As per Fichajes, James Trafford is a name high on their shortlist of potential replacements for the Spaniard, with the young stopper eager to establish himself as a first-choice keeper ahead of next season.
Chelsea have been aware of the growing issues between the sticks for a long time now, as they actively tried to sign Mike Maignan last summer before their triumphant Club World Cup campaign. While they failed to sign the Frenchman, who has since signed a new deal with AC Milan, they have other names on their list.
Ahead of the summer, Chelsea are expected to make considerable changes to their goalkeeping position, with recent reports strongly stating they could part ways with Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen for new options between the sticks.
James Trafford is a player high on their shortlist of targets to replace Sanchez, with the out-of-favour Manchester City ace now contemplating an exit from the Etihad. He is a curious case by all means, given the club paid a big fee to secure him from Burnley last summer only to sign the established Gianluigi Donnarumma a few weeks later, which has reduced the English keeper’s minutes.
Trafford is keen to leave Manchester City if Donnarumma continues to take up the spot between the sticks ahead of next season. Pep Guardiola’s side are aware of his growing ambitions and were eager to demand at least £30 million, which is much closer to what they paid for the young keeper last summer.
Is James Trafford the right choice for Chelsea?
There are a host of teams chasing Trafford ahead of next season, including long-time admirers Newcastle United. However, with Chelsea, there is a club with a huge reputation for developing young talent in the mix, which may see Trafford favour a switch there.
However, the out-of-favour Manchester City ace would be keen to understand his role beforehand, as he may not want to find himself in a position like last summer and certainly will not want to play second fiddle. Hence, Chelsea must be clear in their objective, as Trafford might only join if he is to replace the inconsistent Sanchez next summer.
