Leeds United now ready to pounce on James Trafford transfer after ‘complicated’ reveal

Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford could potentially be playing football at Leeds United next season.

The Whites have struggled for a number one in recent months, with Karl Darlow pipping Lucas Perri in the pecking order.

Trafford has now been linked with a move to Elland Road, with 49ers Enterprises recognising the need for a quality shot-stopper if they survive Premier League relegation.

Daniel Farke will arguably want to see the West Yorkshire outfit make a heavy investment in their squad in the summer, and they may now be in a perfect position to beat their rivals to the Englishman’s signature.

Leeds United goalkeeper Lucas Perri stats
Credit: Imago

James Trafford move to Newcastle United complicated amid Leeds United interest

Newcastle United have Trafford on their radar, but sources at St James’ Park have admitted that a move for him is “complicated”, according to The i Paper.

The news outlet reported on 26 February that while the 23-year-old’s exit from Man City at the end of the season feels likely, there’s uncertainty around a move to the Magpies.

It’s been claimed that the Tyneside outfit will have to reach an agreement on price and wages again, and that the English goalkeeper would have to recommit after almost joining them last summer.

Leeds should take the initiative and pounce on Trafford’s signing, with the goalkeeping department in evident need of reinforcements.

Leeds United target James Trafford's Premier League record for Manchester City in 2025-26 season
Credit: Imago

It doesn’t look like Farke trusts Perri to be his number one, and with Darlow and Illan Meslier’s contracts expiring in the coming months, it remains to be seen what the future holds for them.

Why Daniel Farke will be confident about James Trafford agreement

While Newcastle have definitely been more successful compared to Leeds in recent years, they have had a slight wobble under Eddie Howe this season.

The Magpies are playing in the Champions League, but there’s no guarantee that they’ll qualify for the upcoming campaign as they sit 11th in the table.

Nick Pope is also still around at the Tyneside outfit, and Trafford won’t be guaranteed minutes as long as his English compatriot is at St James’ Park.

Farke can surely offer the Man City shot-stopper an influential role at the West Yorkshire outfit, and the German manager should be confident about enticing him to Elland Road.

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