‘Eddie Howe sets James Trafford deadline with Newcastle bid expected imminently’
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has set a deadline on the club’s move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, as a potential deal moves closer.
Trafford starred for the Clarets in the Championship last season, keeping 29 clean sheets in 45 appearances as Scott Parker’s side secured promotion back to the Premier League.
Unsurprisingly, the Lancashire side had the best defensive record in the league, and at one point in the season, the 22-year-old went over 1000 minutes without conceding a single goal.
| Games | Clean Sheets | Goals Conceded |
| 45 | 29 | 16 |
Burnley are now aiming to become the first promoted side to avoid immediate relegation in three years, but they may be without their starting goalkeeper next season.
Trafford deadline set for Newcastle move
The Magpies have already sorted personal terms with the 22-year-old, so the move hinges on an agreement between the buying and selling clubs.
According to reports in the Shields Gazette (28 June), Newcastle are expected to make a formal bid for Trafford within the next week.
The Clarets value their number one at £40million, but the Magpies are eager to agree a deal for less than the touted asking price.
Newcastle return to first-team training on the 7th July, and Howe ideally wants at least one player through the door before that date, leaving the club just over a week to tie up the Trafford move.
Magpies launch triple bid
Football Insider Verdict
Newcastle are playing Champions League football again next season, and are looking to add three major signings before the transfer window shuts.
As well as Trafford, the club want to bring both Joao Pedro and Anthony Elanga to Tyneside, with the three bids currently totalling at around £125million.
However, if they want to secure the triple deal, Howe’s side may be forced to far exceed that figure.
Forest have already rejected a £45m bid for Elanga, and it would likely take around £60m to bring the winger to St James’ Park.
Pedro is also expected to cost Newcastle £60m, with Brighton standing firm on their valuation.
Currently, it seems unlikely that the Magpies will be able to bring in all three of their main targets, and the North East side may be forced to settle for just one or two.