Newcastle United are reportedly plotting a summer swoop for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford as they look to provide competition for current number one Nick Pope.
According to the Daily Mail, the Magpies see the 21-year-old as a potential challenger for the starting spot rather than a straight replacement.
Newcastle still have faith in Pope’s ability, but he struggled with a long-term injury which sidelined him for 23 league games.
They had to use Martin Dubravka for most of the season, but he is entering the twilight of his career and they need another reliable back-up.
Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale was linked with a move to St James’ Park after losing his starting spot to David Raya.
However, Newcastle deemed him too expensive, with the Gunners demanding more than £30 million.
The same point applied to Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili, who has had a breakout campaign in La Liga.
Trafford has emerged as a more cost-effective option at around £20m, with potential add-ons in the deal.
This aligns with Newcastle’s financial situation, particularly considering their absence from European football next season.
Newcastle are treading carefully to avoid breaching the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) after Nottingham Forest and Everton took point deductions last season.
Trafford joined Burnley from Manchester City for £15 million last year after impressing at the Under-21 European Championship.
However, his move to the Clarets did not go as planned. His goals prevented number stands at a worrying (-7.94) and he kept only two clean sheets (2.2 goals conceded per game).
Despite his uninspiring showings, he has earned a call-up to England’s provisional squad for this summer’s European Championship.
Chelsea are also reportedly interested in Trafford, with Djordje Petrovic and Robert Sanchez looking unconvincing between the sticks.
