Aston Villa shown clear path to sign James Trafford as deal explored
Aston Villa and Newcastle United are both reportedly tracking Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 31-year-old is an established shot-stopper in La Liga and looks set to leave for a new opportunity in the summer, with his contract set to expire in 2027.
Both Villa and Newcastle are also interested in Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, who is keen to leave the Etihad Stadium in the coming weeks.
The 23-year-old expected to be the number one when he was signed from Burnley last summer, but was caught blind by the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma just weeks later.
Villa transfer chiefs still have the future of Emi Martinez to think about, too, with his future not yet obvious.
Aston Villa and Newcastle interested in Alex Remiro
Football Insider exclusively revealed on Friday that Villa are stepping up their pursuit of Trafford, with Martinez's exit edging closer.
The Argentine looked set to leave last summer, even waving goodbye to Villa Park, but he ultimately stayed after a proposed move to Manchester United failed to materialise.
| Alex Remiro | Stats - La Liga 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Saves | 85 |
| Save percentage | 62% |
| Goals prevented | -5.79 |
| Errors led to goals | 3 |
| Successful pass percentage | 71% |
But this summer, the 33-year-old looks set to be finally granted his wish of a move away, although Villa will expect to receive a fair offer.
Newcastle are also looking to replace Nick Pope, and both Premier League sides have reportedly identified Trafford as their first choice.
The 23-year-old has been very impressive when given the chance this season, and made his senior England debut in March.
According to Mundo Deportivo and relayed by Sports Witness, both Newcastle and Villa are also interested in Real Sociedad keeper Remiro.
The Spain international's contract expires in 2027, with his release clause set to drop to £10million this summer.
Remiro interest is good news for Villa
Both Newcastle and Villa's first port of call this summer will be for Trafford, but the latter holds a significant advantage in the race.
Unai Emery's team are set to qualify for the Champions League, earning them significant prize money and a big boost against profit and sustainability restrictions.
Newcastle, on the other hand, sit 15th in the Premier League and would be in need of a miraculous finish to the season if they are to enter any form of European competition next season.
In their case, a cut-price deal for Remiro is far more feasible than the costly move for Trafford that Villa are more likely to pursue.
While decision-makers at Villa Park clearly like the Spaniard, too, they will undoubtedly be happy to stand aside for the Magpies.