‘Burnley set to compromise on James Trafford sale to Newcastle’
Burnley may be set to “compromise” on the long-running discussions over a deal to sell goalkeeper James Trafford to Newcastle.
Nick Pope was an important addition to the Magpies’ squad when the shot-stopper moved from the Turf Moor to St. James’ Park.
However, the England international has missed 33 Premier League games over the last two seasons and Eddie Howe’s side have prioritised signing a new number one this summer.
Football Insider revealed in April that Trafford was Newcastle’s top target, and the club were prepared to let Pope leave as a consequence.
And despite having a bid of around £25million rejected for the Burnley shot-stopper at the end of June, the Magpies are confident they will secure the English goalkeeper’s signing, according to The Times.
Newcastle confident of Burnley accord in James Trafford deal
Trafford was a key part of Burnley’s record-setting defence in the Championship as Scott Parker’s side secured an immediate return to England’s top-flight after suffering relegation under Vincent Kompany in the 2023/24 season.
The former Man City keeper kept an astonishing 29 clean sheets, whilst also conceding just 16 goals in 45 appearances last season, earning a spot in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad, although the 22-year-old is yet to make his senior debut for his national team.
And according to the report, despite Burnley pushing for a fee of nearly £40m for the goalkeeper, Newcastle are confident that the Clarets will agree to a “compromise figure” in the region of £30m.
James Trafford potentially jeopardises England World Cup place
Football Insider Verdict
According to The Athletic, both Pope and Howe are keen for the goalkeeper to remain at Newcastle this summer, despite the impending arrival of Trafford.
Despite the 33-year-old suffering a series of injuries that have limited his appearances for the Magpies, the ex-Burnley man remains a high-quality option.
Interestingly, Trafford could be taking a risk that may jeopardise his chances of travelling to North America for the World Cup next year.
The 22-year-old will be a guaranteed starter with the Clarets next year, but if Howe decides to give Pope another shot at earning a place as a starter again, a year on the bench may lead to Tuchel favouring a keeper who is playing more regularly.
Whilst unlikely, given Newcastle‘s dogged pursuit of Trafford, the England Under-21 international is taking a risk by leaving Burnley this summer.