Sky Sports: Newcastle and PIF are “in talks” to sign “world-class” £30m ace who Eddie Howe loves
Following the official announcement of Antonio Cordero’s impending arrival, Newcastle United have wasted no time in ramping up their summer transfer activity. According to fresh reports, the Magpies are now in discussions to land a long-time transfer target who has remained high on Eddie Howe’s wishlist—Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford—in a deal that could cost around £30 million.
Cordero Signing Kicks Off Newcastle’s Summer Business
After enduring two relatively quiet transfer windows due to Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) constraints, Newcastle United—backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF)—appear determined to be more proactive this summer. Their first move was the acquisition of Antonio Cordero, a promising Spanish winger who will officially join the club once his contract with Málaga expires on July 1.
Cordero is viewed as a high-upside addition for the future, and his arrival marks a significant moment for the club’s recruitment team. Departing sporting director Paul Mitchell, who helped oversee the deal before stepping down, expressed his excitement about the signing, stating:
“Antonio is an exciting talent. We’re delighted to bring him to Newcastle United amidst interest in Spain and across Europe. He has lots of potential, and the next phase of his development will be for the club to select a loan move that will challenge him and build on his experiences.”
This signing is expected to be just the beginning of a busy transfer window for Newcastle, who are now looking to strengthen multiple areas of the squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Newcastle Reignite Interest in Attacking Options
With questions around Bryan Mbeumo’s future—amid links to a potential move to Manchester United—Newcastle have once again been linked with a number of attacking alternatives. Among the names being considered are Anthony Elanga of Nottingham Forest and Brighton forward Joao Pedro.
Elanga, in particular, remains a player of significant interest to the club. Newcastle had initially explored a move for the Swedish international last summer but were unable to act due to financial constraints. Now, with more room to manoeuvre, the Magpies have reportedly made fresh enquiries about securing the pacey winger.
However, while attacking reinforcements remain on the agenda, Newcastle’s immediate focus has shifted to a position that could see one of their senior stars face serious competition next season.
Newcastle Open Talks to Sign Howe Favourite James Trafford
According to a report from Sky Sports, Newcastle United have officially entered into talks with Burnley to sign goalkeeper James Trafford. The 21-year-old shot-stopper is highly regarded by manager Eddie Howe, who is believed to have admired the England international for some time. Trafford is seen not just as cover, but as a serious contender to challenge Nick Pope for the number one spot.
Burnley have placed a £30 million valuation on Trafford, and while that figure may initially appear steep, Newcastle are reportedly willing to negotiate to get a deal done. Trafford’s profile fits Newcastle’s strategy: a young, talented player with high potential and Premier League experience.
Pope, who has been a key figure since joining from Burnley in 2022, has unfortunately struggled with injury issues over the past year. His extended absences have prompted concerns over the reliability of the goalkeeping department, and Howe sees Trafford as the ideal candidate to increase competition and future-proof the position.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first time Newcastle have tried to sign Trafford. Personal terms were reportedly agreed last summer, but a final agreement couldn’t be reached with Burnley. Whether those previous terms still stand or negotiations need to start from scratch remains unclear—but Newcastle’s intent to land the keeper now seems stronger than ever.
Burnley manager Scott Parker has described Trafford as a “world-class” talent, and given the youngster’s growing reputation, it’s not surprising to see a Champions League-aspiring side like Newcastle pursuing him. Should a deal be completed, Trafford could quickly become a key part of Howe’s plans and even challenge Pope for the starting role sooner than expected.
A Busy Summer Ahead at St. James’ Park
With Cordero through the door and talks ongoing for Trafford, it’s clear that Newcastle are moving decisively in the early stages of the transfer window. More deals are expected to follow, as the Magpies look to strengthen their squad in multiple areas and ensure they remain competitive domestically and in Europe.
As Eddie Howe continues to shape the squad to match his vision, the message from St. James’ Park is clear: Newcastle United mean business this summer.