Newcastle United are reportedly on the verge of completing a significant move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, with personal terms already agreed between the two parties. Fabrizio Romano, a well-known transfer expert, has confirmed that Newcastle has been in talks with Trafford since last summer, and the verbal agreement for the goalkeeper’s move remains valid. Trafford has emerged as the Magpies’ top target to reinforce their goalkeeping department, with the club’s long-term vision for the position heavily reliant on securing the 22-year-old’s services in the summer of 2025.
Newcastle’s goalkeeping situation has been under scrutiny for some time now, as both current first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope and backup Martin Dubravka have faced their own challenges. Pope, a key player for the Magpies, has dealt with recurring injuries that have disrupted his ability to maintain consistent form. Dubravka, although experienced, has had some disappointing performances, including his catastrophic display in a 4-0 loss to Manchester City. These performances have intensified the calls for a new goalkeeper, and James Trafford has emerged as a solution.
Trafford’s name first came to prominence when Newcastle made an unsuccessful £15 million bid for him in August 2024. The offer was rejected, but Newcastle’s interest did not waver. Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle, remains keen on acquiring a young goalkeeper who can provide long-term stability to the team, particularly with Pope’s injury issues and Dubravka’s recent struggles.
James Trafford, currently playing for Burnley in the EFL Championship, has been in exceptional form this season. The England U21 international has kept an impressive 24 clean sheets in 33 appearances, showcasing his talent and ability to perform under pressure. Trafford’s performances have helped Burnley maintain a strong position in the Championship, where they currently sit third in the standings, just four points behind leaders Sunderland. His contributions have been vital in Burnley’s promotion push, and the club will undoubtedly be eager to hold on to their star goalkeeper.
Trafford’s success at Burnley is even more remarkable given his relatively young age. At just 22, he has already demonstrated the maturity and reliability of a goalkeeper well beyond his years. His consistent performances have earned him praise from both fans and pundits, with some even hailing him as “incredible.” This reputation has only served to further attract the attention of top clubs, and now, Newcastle appears to be in pole position to secure his signature.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United has already agreed on personal terms with James Trafford since the summer of 2024. The verbal agreement remains valid, and it is expected that the goalkeeper will make the move to St. James’ Park in the summer of 2025. This agreement indicates that the two parties are aligned on Trafford’s future, and the focus will now be on negotiating a transfer fee between Burnley and Newcastle
While Burnley will be eager to retain Trafford for their own promotion ambitions, they are also likely aware that the goalkeeper’s future lies in the Premier League, especially given his remarkable performances this season. A move to Newcastle would be a significant step up for Trafford, who would join a club with ambitions to compete at the top end of the Premier League and in European competitions.
One potential stumbling block for Newcastle is the fact that Manchester City, the club where Trafford began his career, holds a buy-back clause on the goalkeeper. The clause, believed to be over £40 million, allows City to re-sign Trafford if they wish. However, there is no indication that City is currently interested in bringing Trafford back to the Etihad, especially with the club focusing on other areas of their squad. This could pave the way for Newcastle to secure the goalkeeper’s signature without significant competition from Manchester City.
Newcastle will still need to negotiate a fee with Burnley, and given Trafford’s current form, it is likely that Burnley will demand a premium price for their star player. While Newcastle had previously offered £15 million for Trafford, they may have to increase their bid to secure his services, particularly considering the buy-back clause held by Manchester City.
Securing James Trafford would be a significant coup for Newcastle United as they look to build a squad capable of challenging for European football and competing with the Premier League’s elite clubs. The 22-year-old’s arrival would provide stability and youth in a key position, allowing Eddie Howe to focus on other areas of his squad. Given the current injury concerns surrounding Nick Pope and the inconsistent performances of Martin Dubravka, a young and highly rated goalkeeper like Trafford would be an ideal addition to the team.
Moreover, with Trafford still in the early stages of his career, his potential for growth is enormous. A move to a top Premier League club like Newcastle would provide him with the platform to showcase his talents on a larger stage and develop further under the guidance of a manager like Eddie Howe.
Trafford’s statistics for the 2024-25 Championship season further highlight his impressive form. With 33 appearances under his belt, he has conceded just 0.3 goals per game, an outstanding record for a goalkeeper in a competitive league. Additionally, Trafford has saved 88% of shots on target, making 66 saves in total. His remarkable ability to keep clean sheets is evidenced by his 10 clean sheets in a row, setting a record for the most minutes without conceding in the EFL Championship (910 minutes).
These statistics reflect the consistency and reliability that Trafford would bring to Newcastle United’s goalkeeping department. His excellent shot-stopping ability, combined with his leadership in organizing the defense, would make him a valuable asset to the team as they aim to strengthen for the future
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on James Trafford and his potential move to Newcastle United. While there are still negotiations to be had between Burnley and Newcastle, the agreement on personal terms indicates that the deal is well on its way to being completed. For now, Trafford will continue to focus on his performances for Burnley, helping the club in their promotion campaign, while keeping an eye on his impending move to the Premier League.
For Newcastle United, securing Trafford would be an important step in their efforts to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. The 22-year-old goalkeeper’s arrival would address a key position in the team and provide a long-term solution in goal. With his talent and potential, James Trafford could become a central figure at St. James’ Park for many years to come.
