According to a report by Football Insider, James Trafford is the subject of interest from Newcastle United. The Magpies are scouring the market for a goalkeeper heading into the summer transfer window and have set their sights on the Burnley shot-stopper. Meanwhile, the English youth international is also a target for West Ham United.
James Trafford has established himself as one of the best young goalkeepers in the world since joining Burnley from Manchester City in July 2023. The Englishman struggled in his debut season with the Clarets, although their defensive deficiencies contributed to his woes in the 2023/24 campaign.
However, the 22-year-old has evolved into a top-class goalkeeper, playing his part in Burnley producing unprecedented defensive numbers in the EFL Championship. Trafford has conceded only 12 goals in 40 appearances in the second division while keeping 28 clean sheets.
Meanwhile, the English goalkeeper’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs across Europe. Premier League outfits, in particular, are keen on signing the Burnley mainstay, with Newcastle United and West Ham United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature heading into the summer transfer window.
Newcastle United attempted to sign James Trafford in the last two transfer windows before the deal failed to see the light of day. The continued interest is understandable, considering Nick Pope has struggled with fitness issues in the last few seasons. So, the Burnley goalkeeper is a viable target for Newcastle United, with the Tyneside outfit preparing the offensive for a summer move.
As for West Ham United, Alphonse Areola and Lukasz Fabianski are on the wrong side of 30, with the latter in the twilight of his career. So, the Hammers must sign a goalkeeper in the summer transfer window, with Trafford being an option worth considering.
With Newcastle United ready to launch the offensive to land Trafford, West Ham must step up to win the race for his signature. It will be interesting to see where the 22-year-old Englishman lands in the summer transfer window.
