Leeds United is currently negotiating the potential acquisition of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford. The England international may exit the Etihad Stadium this summer, only one year after his return to the club.
While Newcastle United and Aston Villa previously showed interest in the shot-stopper, Villa’s focus has shifted as they anticipate Emi Martinez remaining with their squad. Leeds is prioritizing a new goalkeeper following the departures of Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier.
Although Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns are currently with the team, Perri struggled to retain his starting position during the latter half of the previous season. Trafford, who was part of England’s recent World Cup roster, appeared in 17 matches for City last year, including four Premier League games. His tenure at the Etihad followed a stint at Burnley, where he made 73 appearances before City exercised a 27 million pound buy-back clause in 2024. Opportunities for Trafford became limited after the club secured Italian keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma last September.
