Credit: Imago

Aheed Abrar

Wed 15 April 2026 19:10, UK

Leeds United will be confident about beating Aston Villa to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford in the upcoming transfer window.

The Daily Mail reported on 14 April that the Lions are keeping an eye on the England international as they consider selling Emi Martinez in the summer.

Trafford is a target at Elland Road and the Whites will surely feel they’re closer than ever to completing a move for the talented shot-stopper after beating Manchester United 2-1 at Old Trafford.

The West Yorkshire outfit have made themselves the favourites to avoid Premier League relegation, which will only increase their chances of making quality signings for the 2026-27 campaign.

Daniel Farke has relied on Karl Darlow amid Lucas Perri’s struggles, and the Peacocks will undoubtedly be able to offer Trafford regular minutes, something that Unai Emery may not be able to promise with Martinez still at Villa Park.

Paraag Marathe to fulfil Leeds United promise with James Trafford transfer

Paraag Marathe and 49ers Enterprises intend to re-establish Leeds in the Premier League, and to do so, they’ll need to invest in quality players.

Trafford is one such individual whose presence will undoubtedly make the Whites a better team and, hopefully, more competitive next season.

While survival isn’t guaranteed yet, the West Yorkshire outfit have put themselves in a position to secure their top-flight status this season.

It will then be up to the American owners to back Farke in the summer and the Peacocks could clearly do with upgrades on Darlow and Perri in between the sticks.

Speaking earlier in the season about Trafford, Pep Guardiola said, “We have an incredible keeper [who will be] England number one sooner or later.”

Elland Road statement needed under Daniel Farke

Leeds have been close to the relegation zone this season and wouldn’t want to repeat that if they survive the drop to the Championship.

Villa can possibly be playing Champions League football in the upcoming campaign, but Trafford will surely value regular game time over a chance to play in Europe.

The 23-year-old has been a bit-part player for Man City after Gianluigi Donnarumma’s arrival, and the Whites can surely offer him a prominent role, potentially breaking Emery’s heart in the process.

Farke deserves backing at Elland Road and fans are anticipating an exciting summer in LS11.