Newcastle United has surged ahead in the competition to sign highly-rated goalkeeper James Trafford, according to a report from the Daily Mail. Eddie Howe has initiated a £16 million bid for the former Manchester City shot-stopper, although Burnley is holding out for £20 million.
Trafford, who was recently cut from England’s Euro 2024 squad, now has the opportunity to focus on his club future. Despite interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich, Newcastle is currently leading the race for the 21-year-old.
Burnley, recently relegated to the Championship, is expected to lose several key players. Chelsea, long-time admirers of the England under-21 star, will need to outbid Newcastle and fend off Liverpool’s interest to secure his signature.
Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation remains complex. Last summer, they signed Robert Sanchez, who eventually moved to Real Madrid as a backup. Injuries and form issues led to Dorde Petrovic becoming the first-choice goalkeeper. New manager Enzo Maresca’s preference for a goalkeeper skilled with his feet intensifies Chelsea’s pursuit of Trafford.
Additionally, Chelsea must address Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future, as the Spanish goalkeeper, with one year left on his contract, seeks a move away. Liverpool, eyeing Trafford as a potential replacement for the departing Caoimhin Kelleher, adds further competition.
Chelsea has already made their first signing under Maresca, bringing in Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham on a free transfer, marking a busy start to the new managerial era.
[…] Newcastle Leapfrogs Chelsea and Liverpool in Race for England U-21 Star James Trafford […]