‘I cannot…’ - James Trafford reveals why he snubbed Newcastle United for Man City

James Trafford has called Manchester City his “home” after rejoining Pep Guardiola’s men from Burnley.

Newcastle United spent over a year chasing the goalkeeper and appeared unrivalled in the race for his signature. In truth, the Magpies should have concluded business 12 months ago but a PSR nightmare - which involved Odysseas Vlachodimos arriving - forced their hand.

Fast forward to the present and the coast was clear for Newcastle to strike a deal. It is understood Trafford was keen on joining the Magpies and came within a whisker of heading to Tyneside last week.

Man City activated James Trafford clause

However, Man City activated a buy-back option in his contract which gave them first refusal on any potential Burnley sale. Trafford - who registered a record-breaking 29 Championship clean sheets last season - ultimately headed for the Etihad and has penned a five-year deal, with the option of a sixth.

He has taken the No.1 shirt and will compete with Ederson despite reports linking him with a move to Turkey or Saudi Arabia. Long-term backup Stefan Ortega will be allowed to move on as a result.

‘Place I call home’ - James Trafford

In his first words after becoming a City player for the second time, Trafford called the club his home and highlighted Guardiola’s ability as a coach. He said: "This is the place I call home.

“It's a truly special football club with fantastic people who make it such a unique place to work and play. I am also very excited and honoured to have been given the opportunity to work under Pep and with such a world-class group of players.

"I am still very young and hungry to keep learning and improving - and I know there is no better environment than Manchester City to help make me become the best goalkeeper I can be.

"I also cannot wait to play in front of the amazing City fans for the first time and will do everything I can to help this great club look to achieve even more success.”

Long-term goal at Burnley achieved

Trafford also claimed leaving Burnley was a prudent decision with the idea of returning to City in mind. Two years at Turf Moor gave the young goalie a sample of the highs and lows at top-level football, with 73 appearances across all competitions.

"When I had the opportunity to go to Burnley I thought it was the right step for me at that moment and, in the long-term, it was to achieve to come back here,” Trafford added. “I'm happy that I've achieved it.”

Newcastle have since changed tack as they close in on signing Aaron Ramsdale from Southampton. He is expected on Tyneside for a medical ahead of completing a season-long loan.

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