James Trafford’s rapid rise at Burnley hasn’t gone unnoticed. The 22-year-old English goalkeeper, coming from Manchester City’s academy, is turning out to be the best in the Championship. The young Burnley goalie recently went on to a 1,000-minute clean sheet streak, catching the eye of many potential suitors among Premier League heavyweights. According to TeamTalk, Manchester United, in particular, is throwing their hat into the ring for his signature, but they’ll face stiff competition from Newcastle United in what’s shaping up to be an interesting transfer battle in the summer transfer window.
After a rocky debut Premier League campaign with Burnley last season, where relegation exposed his inexperience, he’s silenced critics this term with a commanding presence between the sticks. His 24 clean sheets in 35 games, including a brilliant 11-game run, have been central to Burnley’s push for automatic promotion. Burnley currently sit third in the Championship with 71 points, just two points off automatic promotion spots.
For Manchester United, Trafford represents more than just a backup plan. While Andre Onana remains the club’s No. 1 for now, his season has been marked with inconsistencies and silly errors, leading to goals that have cost United. Boos rang out at Old Trafford during their recent FA Cup defeat to Fulham when Onana hesitated endlessly in possession, highlighting a disconnect with supporters. Though the Cameroonian isn’t actively seeking an exit, United’s hierarchy knows his £50m price tag from Inter Milan in 2023 complicates any quick sale. Financial Fair Play pressures mean they’d need to recoup most of that fee to avoid a loss, which is over £28.3m in the summer.
This is where Trafford’s appeal grows. At 22, he fits United’s desire for a young star who could eventually challenge for the starting role. But there’s a catch. Trafford won’t settle for bench warming either as he has put in performances week in, week out to guarantee starting roles. Burnley’s £30m valuation reflects his soaring stock, and Newcastle’s long-standing interest gives them leverage. However, it is reported that Trafford, despite coming from Manchester City’s academy, is favouring a move to Manchester United. However, The Magpies, who tried to sign him last summer, can offer a quicker path to regular first-team, especially with Nick Pope nearing 32 and prone to injuries.
Complicating matters further is United’s financial reality. With Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton likely departing, signing a goalkeeper isn’t optional but rather a necessity for them. However, their financial reality calls for a caution on any major spending unless they sell. Although Amorim has put his faith in Onana, he is looking to add a quality option to his goalkeeping pool. Meanwhile, Espanyol’s Joan Garcia lingers as a cheaper alternative, while Leeds’ Illan Meslier has fallen off United’s radar after an inconsistent season with the Championship leaders.
As the summer window approaches, one thing’s clear; Trafford’s next move could define his career. For Trafford, the decision hinges on ambition versus patience. United might want him, but unless they offload Onana, which seems unlikely, or guarantee regular playing time, Newcastle hold the advantage.