James Trafford has been linked with a move to Liverpool

Liverpool and Newcastle race to sign James Trafford - sources

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Published on:

27 May 2024, 12:30 pm

Liverpool and Newcastle United are set to go head-to-head over Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, sources have told Football Insider.

The Reds' interest in the young shot-stopper was revealed last month by Football Insider following extensive scouting trips in the just-completed season.

However, it the Magpies are set to rival Liverpool for Trafford's signature, having made the player's representatives aware of their interest.

Burnley's relegation from the Premier League is likely to make it difficult for them to keep hold of their star custodian and the club have valued him at around £20million ahead of an expected sale.

Both Liverpool and Newcastle view the 21-year-old as a top second-choice goalkeeping option, with Alisson and Nick Pope, respectively, commanding starting berths at the top-flight clubs.

Liverpool in the market for Caoimhin Kelleher replacement

The Reds' need may be more urgent, however, with Caoimhin Kelleher looking increasingly likely to leave Anfield in search of regular game time.

Newcastle's present alternative to Pope - Martin Dubravka - does have just one year left to run on his contract, though, and the club are keen to upgrade on the 35-year-old.

Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher

Trafford made 28 Premier League appearances for Burnley in 2023/24 after joining from Manchester City last summer.

Over the course of the club's ill-fated top-flight campaign, he faced 166 shots and made 106 saves [FotMob]. He has also been named in England's training squad by Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2024.

In other news, Liverpool have been told to accept a "£100m" offer for Mohamed Salah.

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