Leeds in James Trafford talks with Manchester City

Leeds United are in talks with Manchester City to sign James Trafford and the goalkeeper is leaning towards a switch to Elland Road.

The Athletic reported last month that Newcastle United had rekindled their interest in Trafford, having tried to sign the England international last summer before his move to City.

Leeds are seeking a goalkeeper after seeing Karl Darlow, who ended the season as No 1, depart on a free transfer to Manchester United.

Trafford, 23, rejoined City from Burnley having come through the academy at the Etihad Stadium, and returned under the impression he would be first choice — but the addition of Gianluigi Donnarumma on deadline day saw Trafford act as the Italian’s understudy during the 2025-26 campaign. Trafford said in February that being No. 2 “wasn’t what I expected” and that he “tried to guard against the situation happening”.

The Athletic reported earlier this week that Trafford was still Newcastle’s primary option, but that the St. James’ Park club have been looking at alternatives — including Parma’s Zion Suzuki and Carl Rushworth of Brighton & Hove Albion. Newcastle have signed 20-year-old Ewen Jaouen from Reims, and first-choice Nick Pope could leave if another senior option is brought in.

Leeds still have second-choice Lucas Perri, signed from Lyon on a four-year deal last summer, and third-choice Alex Cairns on their books.

Trafford made 17 appearances in the 2025-26 campaign, including playing every match in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup as City lifted both trophies.

He was the undisputed No 1 for Burnley in the previous two seasons, and was an integral member of the defence which conceded just 16 goals in 46 Championship matches as Scott Parker’s side won promotion to the Premier League in 2024-25.

Trafford made his England debut in March, his first of two senior international caps, and was a part of Thomas Tuchel’s squad at the World Cup this summer.