The short answer
James Trafford is a 21-year-old English goalkeeper currently under contract at Manchester City. He spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, where he kept 22 clean sheets in League One. Leeds United are now in talks to sign him permanently, with a fee reportedly around £15 million. Newcastle United had also been linked, but Leeds are believed to be the frontrunners. Trafford is seen as a long-term successor to Leeds' current goalkeeper Illan Meslier, who has been linked with a move away.Why it’s trending
The transfer window is heating up, and Leeds United's pursuit of James Trafford has gained momentum with reports of advanced talks. The potential deal is significant as it could signal Meslier's departure and strengthen Leeds' goalkeeping options for their Championship campaign.
Leeds United are in advanced talks to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, according to multiple reports. The 21-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, is seen as a key target for Leeds as they prepare for the upcoming Championship season. The Athletic reports that Leeds have opened negotiations with Manchester City over a permanent deal, with a fee in the region of £15 million being discussed.
Trafford's potential arrival could pave the way for Illan Meslier's exit, with the French goalkeeper attracting interest from Premier League clubs. The i Paper notes that Leeds are also pursuing other targets, including a Bundesliga free agent, as they look to strengthen their squad under new manager Daniel Farke. talkSPORT adds that Newcastle United had previously shown interest in Trafford, but Leeds have now moved ahead in the race for his signature.
Trafford has been a standout performer for Bolton, keeping 22 clean sheets in League One last season and earning a call-up to the England Under-21 squad. He also made his senior debut for Manchester City in a Carabao Cup tie in 2022. A move to Leeds would represent a significant step up, with the club aiming for promotion back to the Premier League.
The transfer would be a statement of intent from Leeds, who are looking to rebuild after relegation. Trafford's arrival would provide competition for Meslier and potentially a long-term solution in goal. However, the deal is not yet finalized, and other clubs could still enter the race. Leeds fans will be watching closely as the transfer window progresses.
Timeline
- Trafford makes senior debut for Man City
James Trafford made his first-team debut for Manchester City in a Carabao Cup match against Liverpool in December 2022.
- Loan spell at Bolton Wanderers
Trafford joined Bolton on loan for the 2023-24 season, where he impressed with 22 clean sheets in League One.
- Leeds United enter talks
Reports emerge that Leeds United are in advanced talks to sign Trafford permanently, with a fee of around £15 million discussed.
Questions people ask
Why do Leeds want James Trafford?
Leeds are looking to strengthen their goalkeeping options after relegation to the Championship. Trafford is seen as a young, talented goalkeeper with potential to be a long-term successor to Illan Meslier, who may leave the club.
How much will James Trafford cost?
The reported fee is around £15 million, though the exact amount has not been confirmed. Manchester City are expected to include a buy-back clause or sell-on percentage.
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