Man City already have James Trafford replacement in under-the-radar transfer

James Trafford's time at Manchester City came to a disappointing end, but Enzo Maresca may already have his replacement.

The 23-year-old is already a much-loved figure at Elland Road, with Leeds United fans desperate for a consistent goalkeeper for the 2026-27 season.

While Man City did get £45million for his signature, supporters at the Etihad Stadium have been extremely disappointed to see him leave.

Many believed that he would be the club's future after returning from Burnley last summer, only to be instantly bumped down the pecking order by Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Already though, the Citizens may have found the perfect play to replace the goalkeeper in upcoming seasons, but few have heard about the transfer.

Max-Edgar Chabot announced his own signing on social media, explaining his "great pride" in putting pen to paper on his first professional contract.

Max-Edgar Chabot can be James Trafford's successor

Chabot, 18, decided against putting pen to paper on a professional contract at Angers to join the Citizens instead, and is clearly delighted.

Very little is known about the France youth international just yet, but there might not be too long before supporters learn all about him.

Chabot is already a rare find for the Citizens, given that he's left-footed. And in addition to that, he's comfortable in possession of the ball.

That's one of the many reasons that supporters preferred Trafford to Donnarumma, when he actually played, because of his ability with the ball at his feet.

The young shot-stopper has been thrown straight into the Under-21s set-up ahead of the 2026-27 campaign, with the hope of rising up the ranks.

New Man City signing may have to be patient

He will certainly be viewed as a player for the future, and given that he's arriving at the same age as James Trafford was when his development was seriously considered, there is a lot of hope and expectation.

Part of Trafford's development, however, meant being sent out on loan, and then a permanent move, before returning to the Etihad.

It would not be a surprise at all if Chabot were sent out on loan to an EFL club before making his first-team debut, but he appears to be an exciting prospect.

While he never made a senior appearance for Angers, those in Manchester will believe that he can make that step at the Etihad Stadium.

The majority will be hoping for a much more fairytale ending as well.