When Leeds United could announce James Trafford as £45m transfer now close

Leeds United are inching ever closer to completing the signing of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.

The Whites have been desperate to add to their goalkeeping ranks during the summer transfer window.

Karl Darlow was number one for the second half of last season, but has now left to join fierce rivals Manchester United.

Illan Meslier, as expected, left Elland Road at the end of his contract and has now joined Premier League champions Arsenal.

Lucas Perri has been a huge disappointment and is expected to join Torino if Leeds can get the Trafford deal over the line.

The 23-year-old would represent an excellent piece of business, and things appear to be moving at a pace now.

How much will Leeds United pay to sign James Trafford?

MOT Leeds News has covered everything that is known about Trafford's move to Leeds from Man City.

Trafford's future was put on the backburner while he was away with England at the World Cup.

But since the Three Lions' semi-final exit to Argentina, the pace has gathered regarding his transfer.

Now, the Daily Mail has reported in its print edition on Monday (27 July) that Trafford "is moving to Leeds" in a £45million deal.

They note that Newcastle United had also been interested, but have lost out to Leeds in the race for Trafford's signature.

Now, the big question is seemingly when Trafford will sign for Leeds and get the deal over the line.

When will James Trafford sign for Leeds United?

Well, right now, that remains the million-dollar question.

Leeds fans being Leeds fans, there have been rumours on X that Trafford is flying in on the same plane that brought Noah Okafor to Leeds when he joined from AC Milan.

Others have questioned why they would go to such lengths when the drive takes roughly an hour, but still you have to love the enthusiam.

Trafford - once called "incredible" by Anthony Gordon when they were both part of the team that won the European Under-21 Championship with England - is allowed a minimum three-week break after his participation at the World Cup.

So, there might be a bit of wait left before pen is put to paper, but it certainly feels like this one is going to get over the line imminently.