Leeds United close to £40m deal for Man City goalkeeper James Trafford

Published Jul 27, 06:09 PM UTC

Leeds United are nearing an agreement with Manchester City to sign goalkeeper James Trafford for £40 million plus add-ons, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein. The 23-year-old will become Leeds' third summer signing, following Tariq Muharemović and Harry Wilson. Trafford, who came through Manchester City's academy, had a standout loan at Burnley where he set a Championship record with 30 clean sheets in the 2024/25 season. He returned to Manchester City last year expecting to be starter but was relegated to backup after Gianluigi Donnarumma joined. Trafford made 17 appearances for City in 2025/26, winning two trophies, and has earned two senior England caps. Newcastle United also pursued Trafford this summer but are no longer considering the transfer. Leeds needed a new goalkeeper after Karl Darlow left for Manchester United on a free transfer.