Leeds United-linked James Trafford 'open' to Manchester City exit as Brighton credited with interest
Leeds United-linked James Trafford 'open' to Manchester City exit as Brighton & Hove Albion become latest club to be credited with interest
Leeds United-linked goalkeeper James Trafford is reportedly open to leaving Manchester City this summer - and is said to be on Brighton & Hove Albion’s radar.
The 23-year-old was sold by Manchester City to Burnley in 2023 but after a stellar spell with the Clarets, he was bought back by the Citizens last summer.
Ederson’s exit looked to have paved the way for Trafford to become the club’s number one but Gianluigi Donnarumma was later signed from Paris Saint-Germain.
Trafford has since been playing an understudy role, although did still manage to make his senior England debut last month.
Leeds United-linked James Trafford open to Manchester City departure
Leeds are among the many clubs to have been linked with the stopper and according to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Trafford is open to a summer switch.
Posting on X, he said: “James Trafford is open to leaving Manchester City this summer in order to play regularly. MCFC want to keep him.
“For Brighton, he is one of the dream transfer targets should Bart Verbruggen leave the club. Other high-ranking candidates include Robin Risser (RC Lens) and Noah Atubolu. Trafford is also on the shortlist of several other English clubs - one to watch.”
Leeds United’s goalkeeping situation
Leeds forked out a reported £15.6m to sign Lucas Perri from Lyon last summer, only for the Brazilian to lose his spot between the sticks at Elland Road in January.
He was dislodged by Karl Darlow, who had previously pushed Illan Meslier out of the number one spot during the previous campaign.
Darlow has stepped up to the plate in admirable fashion, although is out of contract this summer alongside Illan Meslier and Alex Cairns.
There is therefore plenty of uncertainty surrounding Leeds’ goalkeeping department, which would undeniably be strengthened by the arrival of Trafford.
Earlier this month, ex-Whites winger Lee Sharpe told The Yorkshire Post: “I certainly think Trafford would be a strong addition to the squad.
“I think Daniel Farke is a pretty wise manager and knows what he's talking about. I'm sure he knows the goalkeeping situation and has already got a list if that's what he's looking for.”