James Trafford Returns to Manchester City in £27m Move from Burnley

Manchester City have signed goalkeeper James Trafford from Burnley for £27 million. Trafford, 22, joins on a five-year contract and wants to compete for the club he loves. Reports confirmed that Trafford is eager to return and fight for playing time at his former club.

WHAT HAPPENED?

James Trafford is back at Manchester City just two years after leaving for Burnley. City secured him despite interest from other clubs, in a deal worth £27 million. Trafford impressed at Burnley with 30 clean sheets in 46 league matches and was key in their promotion-winning season. He will compete with Ederson for the No.1 jersey at City and becomes their sixth signing of the window. Trafford said, “I wanted to be back! I love this club. I can’t wait to play for these colours…”

TRAFFORD’S JOURNEY AND IMPACT

Trafford’s reputation grew at Burnley, where he was number one and helped them return to the Premier League. Last season, Burnley finished second in the Championship and earned promotion. Trafford’s performances, leadership, and shot-stopping saw him recalled to City, who sold him for £14m in 2023 and now pay £13m more than that to bring him back. Burnley will start the new season without Trafford, who has been a pivotal figure for them.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR MANCHESTER CITY AND TRAFFORD?

Manchester City are preparing for the resumption of the Premier League, having finished 3rd place behind league winners Liverpool and 2nd placed Arsenal in the previous campaign. Their next match is against Wolves, with City wanting a strong start after failing to win any silverware last season. Trafford is expected to compete immediately for pitch time, especially with Ederson recovering from recent injury setbacks. Burnley will need to act quickly to bring in a new No.1, having lost their stopper from last season, before their opening fixture. Trafford’s return shows City’s intent to remain competitive on all fronts this season.