James Trafford responds after Burnley confirm exit in new message
James Trafford joined Burnley players in reacting after the club confirmed a major departure.
Burnley secured automatic promotion back to the Premier League and will be joined by Leeds United and Sunderland in the top flight next season.
They narrowly missed out on the Championship title, losing out on goal difference after Manor Solomon’s stoppage-time winner for Leeds on the final day clinched them top spot.
Still, Burnley ended the campaign on an impressive 100 points, with Trafford one of the standout performers throughout the season. The goalkeeper kept a record-breaking 29 clean sheets, playing a vital role in their promotion charge.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Football Insider revealing that Newcastle are ready to make a move for Trafford. However, a sell-on clause inserted by Man City may be complicating the deal.
Now, the goalkeeper was among several Burnley players who responded after the club officially confirmed that a key figure is set to leave this summer.
Burnley confirm CJ Egan-Riley departure after rejecting contract offer
Burnley confirmed on 11 June that CJ Egan-Riley will be leaving the club upon the expiry of his contract this summer.
In a statement shared across their social media channels, the club announced that the defender had “formally rejected the club’s contract offer” and will now “pursue an opportunity in France.”
A number of current and former players reacted to the news, including Trafford, Lyle Foster and ex-winger Wilson Odobert, who all liked the post.
Egan-Riley enjoyed a brilliant season at Turf Moor, forming a solid partnership with Maxime Esteve at the back, with Trafford behind them. Together, they helped equal the Football League clean sheet record of 30 in a single season.
It now appears that Ligue 1 will be his next destination, with Foot Mercato reporting that Marseille have submitted a contract offer for the 22-year-old.
Newcastle may be forced to overpay for Trafford as Chelsea join race
With Egan-Riley set to depart, Trafford’s future is also under scrutiny amid growing interest from Newcastle.
Football Insider revealed on 31 May that Newcastle may have to overpay for Trafford now that Burnley are back in the Premier League, with his valuation having increased significantly.
However, if Newcastle want to push a deal through, they may need to act quickly. Chelsea have also reportedly entered the race for Trafford, further increasing the pressure on Eddie Howe’s side.
Manager Scott Parker is keen to keep hold of his core squad, and especially with Egan-Riley already confirmed to be leaving, another defensive departure could prove costly as Burnley prepare for life back in the top flight.