How Leeds beat Newcastle to the signing of James Trafford from Manchester City

James Trafford has come through the doors of Thorp Arch and signed for Leeds United.

It is a significant coup for the Whites, with Trafford routinely mentioned as the eventual successor to Jordan Pickford in the England squad.

The 23-year-old was also primed to be Manchester City's number one for the foreseeable future, but Pep Guardiola opted to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma as well.

Now, Trafford looks set to return to regular first-team football with Daniel Farke taking advantage of his situation at the Etihad.

However, the LS11 outfit were not alone in the race, with plenty others looking to capture his signature.

One of which was Newcastle, who have been long-term admirers of the Englishman.

The key factor that gave Leeds the edge over Newcastle in Trafford pursuit

Trafford's next move was always going to be decided on where he felt he could get the most game time and progress.

At Leeds, following Karl Darlow's exit, that opportunity was wide open for the English shot-stopper to grab.

And the Whites did not hesitate the moment that Trafford was a possibility, beating the likes of Newcastle.

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle had actually spoke to Manchester City in recent weeks to try and strike a deal.

But they failed to agree terms.

Instead they decided to move elsewhere, clearing the path for Leeds to swoop in and present an offer Man City were willing to accept.

The Toon instead secured a deal for Lukas Hornicek, who was also on Leeds' shortlist this summer.

Leeds are set to dip back into the goalkeeper market, with Lucas Perri likely to exit to Torino.

Farke has as many as five names on a shortlist to deputise for Trafford in the 2026-2027 season.

Why Trafford’s record-breaking price tag could look like a bargain for Leeds

Trafford has joined Leeds for £40million plus add-ons, making him the most expensive British goalkeeper of all time.

That is a big price tag to live up to, and the pressure will certainly be on.

However, if Trafford can remain in LS11 over the next few years, and help keep the Whites in the Premier League, or go even further and qualify for Europe, no Leeds fans will care about the money spent.

Time will tell whether Trafford will turn out to be a success and if he can provide those memories listed above, he will ultimately turn out to be a bargain.