Newcastle United are keeping their interest in Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
The Athletic writes that the club has had a long-term desire to sign Trafford, and changes in the goalkeeping department are expected to be a focus area for manager Eddie Howe.
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Trafford impresses in Championship
The 22-year-old Trafford has had another brilliant season for Burnley, with 27 clean sheets in 38 games in the Championship so far.
He was also named in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad last month – which has likely increased his market value even further.
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Purchase clause and competition
His former club Manchester City reportedly included a buy-out clause when they sold him in 2023, but there are no signs that they want to take advantage of this. Newcastle, on the other hand, have shown strong and sustained interest in Trafford for a long time.
This interest persists despite the fact that Newcastle currently have three first-team goalkeepers:
- Nick Pope (32) – remains first choice, but has struggled with injuries
- Martin Dubravka (36) – uncertain future despite contract extension in February
- Odysseas Vlachodimos – has not established himself and only one game since the summer
Need for renewal
Most Premier League clubs, especially those playing in Europe, prefer to have three first-team goalkeepers at their disposal. This could lead to Newcastle resuming their pursuit of Trafford.
John Ruddy (38) and Mark Gillespie (33) are considered training goalkeepers at Newcastle, and both have contracts that expire on June 30.
