Sky Sports confirm medical & four-year deal as Newcastle United handed £40m James Trafford boost
Newcastle United Rekindle Interest in James Trafford as Burnley Line Up Replacement
Newcastle United are once again in active discussions to sign James Trafford from Burnley, reigniting their pursuit of the 22-year-old goalkeeper after failing to secure his signature last summer.
The Magpies had previously made two unsuccessful bids—believed to be in the region of £20 million—for Trafford during the 2024 summer window. However, Burnley rejected those offers, holding firm on their valuation. Following Trafford’s standout season, in which he helped the Clarets earn promotion back to the Premier League, Burnley have now reportedly raised their asking price to approximately £40 million.
Trafford was instrumental in Burnley’s Championship campaign, keeping a remarkable 29 clean sheets in just 45 matches—a record that significantly contributed to their return to the top flight. Despite his youth and limited Premier League experience, his performances have drawn praise and prompted renewed interest from Newcastle.
Burnley Move for Max Weiss Signals Trafford’s Potential Exit
The chances of a Trafford exit appear to have increased following reports that Burnley have agreed to sign German goalkeeper Max Weiß from Karlsruher SC. According to Sky Germany, a deal worth €5 million (approximately £4.2 million) has been agreed, with the 21-year-old expected to undergo a medical on Monday and sign a contract running until 2029.
Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany broke the news, noting that Burnley view Weiß as a long-term option between the sticks. Given that Weiß is of a similar age to Trafford and is being groomed as a potential long-term number one, the move strongly hints that Burnley are preparing for life after Trafford.
Fabrizio Romano: Deal Could Progress in July
Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that talks between Newcastle and Burnley are well underway, and negotiations are expected to accelerate in early July once the window officially opens.
“Negotiations between Newcastle and Burnley for James Trafford are underway,” Romano reported on X. “Club to club talks continue as the deal can happen from July, so expected to accelerate from next week.”
Romano also revealed that personal terms had already been agreed between Trafford and Newcastle during last summer’s negotiations and that those terms remain valid, simplifying the process if the clubs can come to an agreement.
“Newcastle agreed personal terms with James Trafford since summer 2024 and the verbal pact is still valid. He’s still top of the list as new GK for Newcastle next season,” Romano added.
Trafford’s ‘World-Class’ Belief Sets High Expectations
Trafford raised eyebrows with a bold statement last season, declaring himself a “world-class goalkeeper” despite his limited top-flight experience. His self-confidence echoes sentiments previously shared by then-Burnley manager Scott Parker.
Following one of Trafford’s key performances, Parker said: “A really big moment, a big moment for him—the sign of a top, top world-class goalkeeper. Even when he’s quiet for most of the game, he steps up with big saves, commands his area well, and shows maturity beyond his years.”
When Parker’s remarks were relayed to Trafford, he didn’t shy away from the praise. “I know I’m a world-class goalkeeper!” he said, reflecting his ambitious mindset.
Impact on Newcastle’s Goalkeeping Department
If Trafford makes the switch to St James’ Park, it could spark a reshuffle among Newcastle’s current crop of goalkeepers. Slovakian veteran Martin Dubravka, who was close to leaving in January before earning a short-term contract extension, is once again expected to be available for transfer this summer.
Backup goalkeeper John Ruddy is also set to depart when his contract expires at the end of the month, while Greek international Odysseas Vlachodimos is reportedly being made available for a loan or permanent exit should a suitable offer be tabled.
Meanwhile, Nick Pope—Newcastle’s current first-choice keeper—is entering the final year of his contract. Though Pope remains a key figure, Trafford is expected to be brought in as serious competition, with the club viewing him as a long-term solution and potential successor rather than an immediate replacement.
What Comes Next
With Burnley now lining up Max Weiß as a successor and Newcastle determined to bolster their squad ahead of a return to European competition, the pieces are falling into place for a deal to be struck. Should Trafford join the Magpies, it would represent a significant investment in youth and a strategic move for the future of their goalkeeping department.