Manchester City’s James Trafford still of interest to Newcastle United

Newcastle United’s ambitious summer overhaul of their goalkeeping department shows no signs of slowing down. Despite closing in on a €28.5 million (£24.6 million) deal for Stade de Reims’ highly rated young goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen, the Magpies still retain strong interest in Manchester City’s James Trafford. While Jaouen is viewed as a top development prospect to provide immediate competition, Newcastle still consider Trafford a leading target who could secure the long-term number one spot at St James’ Park.

Trafford’s situation at the Etihad Stadium has reached a tipping point as he has reportedly informed Manchester City chiefs and sporting director Hugo Viana that he does not intend to spend another season as a backup option. A graduate of Man City’s academy, Trafford returned to the Etihad Stadium last summer from Burnley, expecting a real chance to claim the starting role. However, City’s subsequent signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma relegated the young Englishman to cup matches, although he did start both the EFL Cup and FA Cup finals during City’s domestic double campaign.

With long-serving first-choice Nick Pope tipped for a return to Ipswich Town, a starting spot is set to open up on Tyneside. Newcastle previously submitted a bid for the ‘world-class’ Trafford and remain a contender for his signature. Manchester City are open to a sale if Trafford pushes for an exit, but they are determined to turn a profit on their initial investment. Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have also been linked with Trafford, who remains in demand despite limited playing time in recent months.