Leeds United Targets James Trafford Amid Goalkeeper Departures
Club initiates talks for Manchester City keeper as Meslier and Darlow exit Elland Road, signaling significant squad overhaul.
Carla Rooney
Leeds United has intensified its pursuit of a new frontline goalkeeper, with James Trafford emerging as a priority target following the departures of Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow.
Leeds first registered interest in Trafford before his involvement with England at the World Cup. Trafford made 17 appearances for Manchester City during the 2025/26 season.
Manchester City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris St-Germain in September 2025. This acquisition directly impacted Trafford's standing, as he had returned to Manchester City expecting to be first choice after Ederson's transfer to Fenerbahce.
Donnarumma's arrival, however, relegated Trafford to the number two position. Trafford had started the first three Premier League matches before Donnarumma displaced him, moving from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day.
Trafford now seeks first-team football next season. His ambition is to establish himself as a Premier League number one, driving his current transfer considerations.
Trafford is impressed by Leeds' ambition.
Newcastle United, despite strong prior interest, has withdrawn from the race to sign Trafford. Newcastle had considered Trafford their primary option for the goalkeeping position in summer 2025.
A source close to the deal indicates Trafford is impressed by Leeds' ambition. He is leaning towards a move to Elland Road, with Leeds expressing hope of announcing the signing in the coming days.
Manchester City's new valuation of Trafford reportedly stands at £50m. TEAMtalk suggests an asking price closer to £40m, but Leeds remains undeterred in their pursuit despite the significant price tag.
Aston Villa, meanwhile, focuses on retaining Emi Martinez, not pursuing Trafford. Unai Emery prioritizes keeping Martinez, avoiding a significant allocation of transfer funds for a new goalkeeper.
This stance from Villa opens the door for Leeds to explore Trafford as a primary option. Leeds also explores options for Zion Suzuki, though Parma remains reluctant to discuss a potential departure.
Lucas Perri was signed as a new number one in summer 2025; Leeds would have no issue starting the season with him in goal. Lyon has identified Jacob Widell Zetterstrom as a potential target.
Zetterstrom's stock has risen considerably during his last two years at Pride Park. His performance draws attention from major European clubs.
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