James Trafford saga takes fresh twist - Newcastle United wait as ‘fake news’ claim made
Manchester City’s move for James Trafford relies upon Ederson or Stefan Ortega leaving the Etihad.
Newcastle United are watching closely while Manchester City delay an approach for James Trafford.
Pep Guardiola is understood to be keen on the goalkeeper, whom he sold two years ago to Burnley. That £16million deal came just weeks after Trafford helped England win the under-21 Euros.
A year later, he almost joined Newcastle following Burnley’s relegation. PSR restrictions and Odysseas Vlachodimos’ unexpected arrival killed the deal, with Trafford going on to enjoy a record-breaking campaign at Turf Moor.
James Trafford’s new valuation
The 22-year-old registered 29 clean sheets - a Championship record - as Burnley conceded just 16 goals on their way to an instant Premier League promotion. Newcastle believed they have a gentlemen’s agreement to strike a deal this summer but Burnley now value Trafford closer to £40million.
Toon chiefs have haggled over a deal throughout the window - allowing Manchester City the chance to push ahead in the queue. City have first dibs on Trafford - as well as a 20 per cent sell-on clause should he head elsewhere - due to a clause inserted two years ago.
NewcastleWorld understands Trafford to Tyneside is not dead in the water but the Magpies are no longer in the driving seat. A lot hinges on events at the Etihad - hardly ideal for Eddie Howe and Co.
Man City wait on Ederson offer
It is known that Man City will only move for Trafford should Ederson or Stefan Ortega leave. Reports last week suggested Galatasaray had offered £3million for first-choice shot-stopper Ederson, who has one year remaining on his contract.
While the Turkish giants like the Brazilian, that is thought to be wide of the mark. Any formal offer for Trafford is on hold - for now - giving Newcastle a glimmer of hope.
In truth, the Magpies fumbled the advantage for a player who, until recently, appeared dead set on a St James’ Park switch. Burnley wanted a hefty fee but Howe would have backed his coaching skills to develop Trafford further in the coming years.
Ederson slams ‘fake news’ on exit
Speaking last month, Ederson denied suggestions he is leaving Man City. The 31-year-old - who dubbed exit talk as “fake news” - has helped transform the goalkeeper role in English football since 2017 and is set on challenging for honours under Guardiola next season.
“My future is here,” Ederson said. “Some friends send me a lot of news but 99% is fake news. I understand you guys – you need the news to put a like on social media or rant for the news.
“I understand but there’s a lot of fake news around my name. My head is here. It stays with City. It gives me everything to go back to the Premier League again and try to win the Champions League as well. My mind is staying in the club.”