Manchester City is set to re-sign English goalkeeper James Trafford for £27 million, two years after his departure to Burnley. The 22-year-old, an academy graduate of City, joined the Clarets in July 2023 in a deal potentially worth up to £19 million with additional clauses.
Trafford impressed last season as Scott Parker's side achieved promotion to the Premier League, maintaining 29 clean sheets in 45 Championship matches and earning a place in the division's team of the year.
City held a buy-back clause for Trafford, along with matching rights, allowing them to match any offer from other clubs. Following a £27 million bid from Newcastle, City exercised these rights, and Trafford has chosen to return to Etihad Stadium.
Upon his return, he will be the fourth goalkeeper available to City manager Pep Guardiola, joining Ederson, Stefan Ortega, and Marcus Bettinelli. Trafford is expected to compete with Brazil international Ederson, who has been the first-choice goalkeeper for eight years, for the number one position.
Ederson is in the final year of his contract and has been linked with a potential move to Galatasaray, although City has not yet received any offers for him. Meanwhile, there are uncertainties regarding German goalkeeper Ortega's future.
Having joined City's academy in 2015, Trafford never made a first-team appearance and spent time on loan at Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers. He is anticipated to sign a five-year contract with City, including an option for an additional year.
Further updates to follow.
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