Newcastle United’s pursuit of James Trafford from Burnley is progressing well.
Initially, Newcastle officials deemed Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili too expensive, making a move for the 21-year-old Trafford increasingly likely. After Burnley’s relegation, Trafford has a chance to return to the Premier League. Reports from The Athletic suggested Newcastle’s bid for Trafford was imminent, which was confirmed when a £16 million offer was reported on Saturday. Newcastle’s interest coincides with Burnley’s financial need to sell.
Although Newcastle’s bid was £4 million below Burnley’s valuation, negotiations continue. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has updated that Newcastle have agreed on personal terms with Trafford. Romano indicated that a new proposal, around £15 million with performance-based add-ons, is forthcoming. Manchester City will receive 20% of the fee from Burnley.
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Trafford is eager to move from Turf Moor to St James’ Park. Despite Eddie Howe not wanting him to replace Nick Pope immediately, the deal signifies Newcastle’s confidence in Pope, who remains their first-choice goalkeeper. The decision to pursue Trafford is also influenced by Newcastle not qualifying for Europe. Had they qualified for the Conference League, Howe might have considered goalkeepers like Mamardashvili or Aaron Ramsdale for rotation purposes.
Signing Trafford is sensible for Newcastle as he will serve as a number two goalkeeper with potential to eventually replace Pope. Although Trafford struggled during his debut Premier League season, Newcastle believes in his long-term potential. Their interest likely intensified after Trafford was excluded from England’s 26-man squad for Euro 2024, allowing Newcastle to advance their pursuit.
With personal terms agreed, the next steps are for Newcastle to have their offer accepted by Burnley and for Trafford to pass a medical. While there is still some way to go, the deal looks promising. Trafford could be Newcastle’s first signing of the summer, with Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth also expected to join.