(Credit: Imago)

James Murray

Mon 20 April 2026 12:15, UK

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Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford is expected to leave the Etihad Stadium in the summer transfer window.

That is according to former Man City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider the 23-year-old will likely complete a move for around £40million.

Trafford re-joined Pep Guardiola’s side from Burnley in a £31m deal last summer, two years after making the move to Turf Moor for £19m.

However, the England international has found first-team opportunities hard to come by this season following the signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG.

Man City are at risk of losing Trafford after multiple clubs have been linked with a summer move for the shot-stopper.

Why James Trafford will accept offer that’s ‘too good to turn down’

Football Insider revealed last month Newcastle are leading the race to sign Trafford as they look to bring in a new goalkeeper.

However, Aston Villa, Tottenham and Leeds United are also believed to be interested in the Etihad academy product.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson discussed the chances of Trafford leaving Man City this summer.

“I would expect him to leave largely because he wants to, but also because the quality of the clubs that appear to be interested in him are going to be too good to turn down,” said Borson.

“We’re getting to the point now where even potential Champions League teams are going to be interested. I saw Villa were added to the list.

“Spurs are not going to be in the Champions League next season, maybe Championship, but if they survive, then that would be an interesting move for him as well. You’re looking at really good clubs that are going to be in for him.”

Why Trafford’s potential exit is a ‘shame’ for Man City

Borson revealed Man City would prefer to keep Trafford despite his current position in Guardiola’s squad.

“I don’t think City are going to make him number one, so inevitably he would leave,” said Borson.

“But the flip side is City would very much like him to stay. To be able to have two goalkeepers of that quality going into any season is obviously something that they’d prefer.

“I expect him to leave right now, but the fee would be probably a relatively small upside on what they paid last summer, sort of in the £40m level because he’s been impressive, particularly as the season’s worn on. 

“It’s a shame because City will then have to go out and find another second-choice goalkeeper that’s prepared to be on the bench for a while, but also presumably play in the domestic cups.”