‘Man City could now bring back James Trafford after Ederson transfer exit’
Man City are interested in a possible reunion with James Trafford this summer amid uncertainty around the future of Ederson.
The goalkeeper originally came through the youth ranks with the Citizens, but never made a first-team appearance for them.
He was then sold to Burnley in the summer of 2023, with the Clarets paying £15million for the services of the England youth international [BBC Sport].
This summer, Trafford has been key in helping Burnley win promotion to the Premier League as Championship runners-up, keeping 29 cleans sheets in the league.
Man City enter goalkeeper transfer race
That form from the 22-year-old has already seen him attract plenty of interest ahead of this summer’s transfer window.
Newcastle United have been heavily linked with a move for Trafford, with the likes of Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka approaching the latter stages of their contract.
However, the Magpies now look as though they could face some significant competition for the signing of the goalkeeper.
According to a new update from The i, those at Newcastle are aware that completing a deal to sign the Burnley star could prove “difficult”.
It is noted that there is potential rival interest in Trafford from Pep Guardiola‘s side, who may also find themselves needing a new shot-stopper before the start of next season.
The future of Ederson at Man City is in doubt, with speculation growing about a move elsewhere as he enters the final year of his contract, and signing the 22-year-old would help cover that role in goal.
As well as that, Trafford would also help the club when it comes to their Champions League squad registration, given he qualifies as a homegrown player.
James Trafford an intriguing target for Pep Guardiola
Football Insider Verdict
In some ways, there is a case to be made that this would be a sensible signing for Man City to make this summer.
If Ederson does leave, they will need another goalkeeper and Trafford’s homegrown status will help when it comes to Champions League squad management.
At 22-years-old he is also someone they would be able to develop and rely on for a long time to come if they brought him to the Etihad.
Looking ahead to the 2025/26 season though, bringing Trafford in as a direct replacement for Ederson would feel like a major gamble for Man City.
They will be aiming to recover from what has been a hugely underwhelming campaign by getting their hands on some silverware next time round.
So a goalkeeper who has had just one season in the top-flight, which ended in a dismal relegation with Burnley in the 2023/24 season, may not be the most reliable option for them in that sense even if their defensive record in the second tier was outstanding last term.
With that in mind if they are to move for Trafford, it could be argued that for now at least, he would be more suitable as a back-up option.