Three affordable goalkeeper Newcastle United can sign instead of £40m James Trafford include a UCL winner
Newcastle United Continue Negotiations with Burnley Over James Trafford, but Valuation Gap Remains
Newcastle United remain engaged in discussions with Burnley over the potential signing of goalkeeper James Trafford. However, a significant difference in the two clubs’ valuation of the 22-year-old England international continues to be a major sticking point in negotiations.
Trafford has long been on Newcastle’s radar, having emerged as a top target for the Magpies more than a year ago. At one point in 2024, a transfer appeared to be all but completed, with reports indicating that a fee in the region of £16 million had been agreed. Unfortunately for Newcastle, concerns over Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) ultimately forced the club to withdraw from the deal before it could be finalised.
Now, roughly twelve months later, the Magpies have reignited their pursuit of the talented young shot-stopper. Talks between the two clubs resumed recently, and although progress has been made, the deal is still far from being finalized. According to sources, Newcastle currently value Trafford at around £30 million—a figure Burnley are reluctant to accept.
Burnley’s stance is strengthened by the fact that Trafford’s former club, Manchester City, hold a buy-back clause set at £40 million. This clause has effectively set a benchmark for Trafford’s valuation, and the Clarets are understandably keen to secure as close to that amount as possible, especially with Trafford’s profile continuing to rise.
Complicating matters further is the shortened transfer window for clubs involved in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, which has temporarily slowed negotiations. Nevertheless, with Newcastle not participating in the competition, the club is under no immediate pressure to rush the deal through. The extra time may prove valuable in working out a mutually acceptable agreement.
While Trafford remains Eddie Howe’s primary target to bolster the goalkeeping department, Newcastle are also preparing for the possibility that a deal may not materialize. In light of that, the club has begun exploring alternative options to ensure they are not left short in a key position ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Here are three viable alternatives that Newcastle could pursue:
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Aaron Ramsdale – A Premier League-Proven Alternative
One of the more familiar names linked to St James’ Park is Aaron Ramsdale. The Southampton goalkeeper, who previously shone at Arsenal, is expected to seek a move back to the top flight after the Saints’ recent relegation from the Premier League.
Still only 27, Ramsdale has Champions League experience and was named in the PFA Team of the Year for his standout performances during the 2022/23 season. Like Trafford, Ramsdale is also an England international, and his pedigree makes him a logical target for any club seeking a high-quality addition in goal.
A significant advantage to signing Ramsdale is his reported £25 million relegation release clause—substantially less than the fee Burnley are demanding for Trafford. Furthermore, Ramsdale’s distribution is one of his standout qualities, a department where Newcastle’s current No.1, Nick Pope, has struggled.
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Andriy Lunin – A Champions League Winner Looking for Regular Minutes
If Newcastle are eyeing a keeper with elite pedigree and experience on the grandest stage, Andriy Lunin is another name to consider. The Real Madrid goalkeeper has spent most of his career as backup to Thibaut Courtois and has found regular game time hard to come by.
However, when called upon, Lunin has impressed. In the 2024/25 season, he made seven appearances and kept four clean sheets, contributing to Real Madrid’s dominant domestic and European campaigns. Lunin has already collected two Champions League winner’s medals and now appears ready to step into a starting role elsewhere.
Newcastle were previously linked with the Ukrainian international in late 2023 following Pope’s injury but opted not to pursue a move at the time. Now, with Lunin reportedly available for just £25 million, this could be the perfect moment for the Magpies to revive their interest.
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Walter Benitez – An Experienced Free Agent Option
For a more budget-friendly solution, Newcastle could turn to experienced Argentine keeper Walter Benitez, who is available on a free transfer this summer. The 32-year-old is set to depart PSV Eindhoven after a successful stint that culminated in an Eredivisie title last season, during which he played every single league match.
Benitez brings a wealth of experience, having competed in the UEFA Champions League as recently as this year. He was instrumental in PSV’s run to the round of 16, including a memorable victory over Lloyd Kelly’s Juventus in the play-off round.
While Benitez is slightly older than the other candidates, his availability on a free transfer and consistent performances at a high level make him an appealing short-term option. However, Newcastle would need to act quickly, as reports suggest Crystal Palace have already opened talks with the player.
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Final Thoughts
James Trafford remains the preferred option for Newcastle United, and there is still optimism that a deal can be reached with Burnley. However, with the two clubs still at odds over the transfer fee and other suitors beginning to circle, the Magpies are wise to explore other potential targets.
Whether it’s Ramsdale, Lunin, or Benitez, Newcastle have viable alternatives to consider—each with their own strengths and varying price tags. What remains clear is that Newcastle are determined to reinforce their goalkeeping options this summer, as Eddie Howe aims to build a squad capable of challenging for European qualification once again.