Ex-Burnley keeper James Trafford on ‘verge’ of Leeds United move

Former Burnley promotion winner James Trafford is on the verge of signing for Leeds United, according to reports.

The 23-year-old is keen to leave Manchester City this summer in search of regular football after a frustrating season at the Etihad, where he had to play understudy to Gianluigi Donnarumma following his move from Turf Moor.

The stopper, who was expecting to be number one under Pep Guardiola, left Burnley for a £31m fee last summer, plus add-ons, becoming the club’s record sale.

While he finished the season with FA Cup and Carabao Cup winners’ medals, he spoke of his frustration at having to sit on the bench for the majority of the campaign, playing just four games in the Premier League.

He now looks set to join Leeds, with talkSPORT reporting negotiations are “moving quickly” now Trafford has finished up at the World Cup with England. The former Clarets keeper has reportedly given his approval to the move.

Newcastle United have held long-time interest, going back to his Burnley days, but it’s claimed they’ve not held any recent talks or submitted a bid.

Trafford, a 2023 signing from Man City, endured a difficult debut campaign at Turf Moor as Vincent Kompany’s side were relegated from the Premier League.

But he starred in the Championship the following season, keeping 29 of Burnley’s record-equalling 30 clean sheets and conceding just 16 goals in 46 league games as Scott Parker’s side clinched automatic promotion.