James Trafford Ready for Manchester City Return as Clubs Open Talks

James Trafford, the Burnley goalkeeper, is ready to return to Manchester City this summer. City and Burnley are in talks. Trafford, who wants to go back to his old club, is waiting for a final deal. The clubs are discussing transfer terms and possibly lowering the £40 million buy-back clause, as reports indicate.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Twenty-two-year-old Trafford is open to returning to City if the clubs agree. City sold him to Burnley in 2023. Now, they are trying to lower the £40 million buyback clause. Trafford wants to join City again and hopes to become their main goalkeeper. But a deal depends on City’s current keepers—either Ederson or Stefan Ortega—leaving. The future of Trafford at Manchester City may depend on whether these players remain at the club, according to a recent update. Burnley also needs a new goalkeeper before letting Trafford go.

CITY’S KEEPING SITUATION AND SEASON PERFORMANCE

City finished last season well, grabbing a Champions League spot. But there are questions about Ederson and backup Ortega’s futures. City wants to refresh its squad and sees Trafford as a young, homegrown goalie. Trafford spent last season as Burnley’s number one, keeping 30 clean sheets and conceding only 16 goals as Burnley finished second in the Championship last season. However, Burnley will probably struggle in the Premier League, and the goalkeeper may favour a move to a more established team, with more exposure to contintental competitions if there is a chance that he will fight for the starting spot.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Talks will continue as City seeks a breakthrough with Burnley. A deal could speed up if City sells Ederson or Ortega, both of whom have been linked with moves abroad. City is preparing for their first Premier League game in early August against Wolves. Burnley will start their league season against Tottenham. Both teams aim to finalize their goalie squads before the new season starts.