James Trafford has crucial quality that current Leeds keepers do not – this is why Daniel Farke must sign him
Leeds United are in the race for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford ahead of the summer transfer window.
Trafford moved back to the Etihad Stadium at the start of this season, but his progress was immediately halted as Pep Guardiola’s side brought in Gianluigi Donnarumma just weeks later.
The former Burnley shot-stopper has been restricted to appearances in cup competitions since the Italian’s arrival, and is now looking for an exit route.
City would like Trafford to leave on loan in the summer, but Daniel Farke must push for the Whites to bring him on a permanent deal.
James Trafford holds key quality over Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow
Trafford was by far and away the best goalkeeper in the Championship last season, at one point going over 1000 minutes without conceding for Burnley.
He had a shaky start at Man City, but no doubt would’ve been able to find his feet at the Etihad if given more time.
It’s more than understandable that Guardiola opted to sign someone of Donnarumma’s quality, but it doesn’t detract from the potential Trafford has.
Both Lucas Perri and Karl Darlow have shown this season that they have struggled to maintain the level required over a long period of time.
Trafford has that consistency in abundance and proved it last season at Burnley, so he is clearly a better option for Farke.
- Read More: Leeds United’s likely circumstances for James Trafford revealed as Man City preference known
Daniel Farke must be ruthless
If Leeds are to stay up in the Premier League this season, they must ensure that they kick on in the following campaign.
That starts with their business in the summer transfer window, and Farke will have to be ruthless to improve his squad.
The likes of Perri and Darlow are more than capable at Premier League level, but if the Whites want to become an established top-flight side, they need a better goalkeeper.
Shot-stoppers like Trafford are not available very often, especially given the potential that the Englishman has, so Farke has to jump on the opportunity.
It might seem harsh to write off Perri and Darlow at this stage, but that is what’s required to consolidate Leeds’ place in the Premier League.
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