James Trafford's path to Leeds clears amid goalkeeping developments elsewhere

James Trafford is set to leave Manchester City this summer, with Leeds United likely to be in the mix.

The 23-year-old will go to the World Cup with England this summer, and is expected to settle his future upon his return.

Manchester City would prefer to retain the goalkeeper, who they signed back from Burnley last summer, but are aware that his preference is for an exit.

Leeds are looking for a new number one this summer, and could still lose Karl Darlow if he opts against signing a new contract this summer.

Lucas Perri has failed to prove himself since making the switch to Elland Road, and Illan Meslier is also out of contract.

Leeds United shown path to sign James Trafford

Newcastle had been the favourites to sign Trafford this summer, after they came so close to signing him last year.

The Magpies had agreed a fee to sign the Englishman from Burnley as the result of long-term interest, but they were denied when Man City utilised their matching rights clause to match the bid.

Trafford, offered the chance to be the number one for his boyhood club, jumped at the chance to return.

It quickly became clear that the 23-year-old had been misled, however. Just weeks later, Man City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG, and the Italian started the next 34 Premier League games.

Trafford's appearances have come in the cups, and he has impressed massively, but he is not willing to bide his time behind a 27-year-old goalkeeper.

It was thought that Newcastle would return for him this summer, but they are in the final stages of signing talented French stopper Ewen Jaouen.

Aston Villa have been linked, too, but Emi Martinez no longer looks likely to leave, and goalkeepers elsewhere appear to be settled.

Leeds have obvious Nick Pope decision to make

Ahead of the transfer window, links to Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope have been gaining momentum for Leeds.

The 34-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract at St James' Park, and with Jaouen's imminent arrival, an exit looks likely.

Pope would be a cheaper option for Leeds than Trafford. Undoubtedly.

Should the Whites consider both the current ability and the future potential of both players, however, it really should not be a difficult decision to make.