Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United are set to miss out on long-term goalkeeper target James Trafford, with Leeds United closing in on a club-record move for the Manchester City shot-stopper.
The Magpies have admired Trafford for several transfer windows, having made serious attempts to sign him in both 2024 and 2025. On both occasions, however, Manchester City exercised their buyback clause to bring the England goalkeeper back to the Etihad before a move to St James’ Park could be completed.
Trafford even went as far as verbally agreeing personal terms with Newcastle during one of those pursuits, but the transfer ultimately failed to materialise.
Despite Newcastle maintaining their interest this summer, it now appears the 23-year-old is heading elsewhere.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Leeds United have reached a verbal agreement with Manchester City over a club-record deal worth £40 million plus add-ons, with the transfer expected to be completed later this week.
Romano posted on X:
«”Leeds United reach verbal agreement with Man City for club record deal to sign James Trafford, here we go! Club-to-club deal in place for £40m plus add-ons, long-term deal offered to Trafford. Signatures expected this week.”»
Trafford had been open to leaving Manchester City in search of regular first-team football after finding opportunities limited last season. Newcastle were widely regarded as one of the leading contenders for his signature because of their long-standing interest, but the Yorkshire club have now won the race.
With Trafford seemingly out of reach for a third time, Newcastle have already begun exploring alternative options.
One goalkeeper on the club’s shortlist is Braga’s Lukas Hornicek. The highly rated 24-year-old is viewed as a more affordable option and reportedly has a £30 million release clause in his contract with the Portuguese side.
Newcastle have also strengthened their goalkeeping department this summer with the arrival of young French goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Stade de Reims, as Eddie Howe continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
After missing out on James Trafford three times, Newcastle will now focus their attention on securing an alternative goalkeeper before the transfer window closes.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
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