‘Newcastle set clear James Trafford stance as new asking price is revealed’: ‘No deal’
Newcastle United clearly mean business as they prepare to return to the Champions League next term.
A spot in Europe’s elite competition means that Eddie Howe is certain to try and strengthen his squad over the summer to ensure that his team are capable of challenging on all fronts.
Last summer, spending rules proved to be a major problem for Newcastle, who did not make any significant on-field additions.
However this time around, it has been suggested that Newcastle will look to take “revenge” in the transfer market with as many as three major new signings.
Newcastle want James Trafford but won’t be held to ransom
The Magpies are keen to add more quality to their goalkeeping department and long-term target James Trafford could provide exactly that.
Trafford conceded just 16 goals last term to help Burnley to secure automatic promotion to the Premier League.
However Newcastle insist that they won’t be forced into paying over the odds.
Taking to X, Northern Football Writer of the Daily Telegraph, Luke Edwards, provided an update on Howe’s interest in the Burnley man.
He wrote: “Informal talks have taken place but Burnley have an asking price well in excess of £30m.
“Newcastle will not do a deal at that number. Happy to wait for it to come down or walk away.
“Too many other positions to fill to spend that sort of money on a goalkeeper.”
Newcastle want an attacker to bolster their forward line
While signing a goalkeeper to provide competition for Nick Pope would be nice, Newcastle are more focused on strengthening in the final third.
Joao Pedro is high on the shortlist of the club and could leave Brighton this summer in search for Champions League football.
| Position | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Goals scored | Goals conceded | Points |
| 2nd | 46 | 28 | 16 | 2 | 69 | 16 | 100 |
While Brentford attacker Bryan Mbeumo looks set for a move to Man United despite interest from Newcastle, the Magpies are leading the race – along with Everton – to sign Jack Grealish this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Newcastle are prioritising a new winger, while Howe’s men have set their sights on a move for Nottingham Forest star Anthony Elanga.
Ex-Man United and Blackburn Rovers chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider that Elanga wants to join Newcastle, thanks to the North East side’s Champions League status.