Leeds United are reportedly among the clubs looking at Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford but look set to miss out to Burnley – with Sky Sports claiming the England U21 star is closing in on a move to Burnley, worth £19m.
Trafford, 20, has starred for Bolton over the last 18 months. Joining the club on loan from City back in January 2022, he has caught the eye – conceding just 58 goals in 74 games. He kept 33 clean sheets with the League One side.
The goalkeeper now returns to Manchester City, but his main focus will be on guiding England to glory in the U21 European Championships. He’s started all four of England’s climb to the semi-final, without conceding a single goal.
So, clearly, we are talking about a goalkeeper with immense potential. The Mail said Leicester, Burnley and Leeds were all looking at Trafford, a player Charlie Cresswell recently raved about: “He is a great keeper, and a great guy.”
But it was reported on Sky Sports News that Burnley are closing in on a deal for Trafford, worth a huge fee that includes an initial £12m fee – plus a potential £7m in add-ons. A fee that Leeds and Leicester simply cannot afford.
Leeds among clubs looking at Trafford, Burnley closing in on £19m deal
Trafford is a top, top goalkeeper. His exploits at the Under-21 European Championships has seen his value sky rocket over the past few weeks. Even at only the initial fee of £12m, Leeds and Leicester would have struggled.
A move to Burnley, where he is likely to be first choice, and the chance to play under Vincent Kompany – is a brilliant move for Trafford. While it is a good sign Leeds are looking in the right places, £19m is way too expensive right now.
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