Exclusive: Newcastle set to make new push for ‘world-class’ signing who has told them he’s desperate to join
Newcastle United Prepare for Renewed Talks Over James Trafford as Burnley Hold Firm on Valuation
Newcastle United are set to reopen negotiations with Burnley as they continue their determined pursuit of highly-rated goalkeeper James Trafford, sources have confirmed to TBR Football. The Premier League club is eager to finalise a deal for the England U21 international, with discussions expected to resume in the coming days.
Despite their strong interest, Newcastle are yet to reach an agreement with Burnley, who remain adamant about their valuation of the 22-year-old. The Clarets are holding out for a fee in excess of £30 million and have made it clear to both Trafford and interested parties, including Newcastle, that they are under no financial pressure to sell the player during this transfer window.
Over the past month, Newcastle have tabled multiple offers for Trafford, but each has been turned down by Burnley. Nevertheless, the Magpies remain optimistic, believing they are edging closer to a breakthrough despite Burnley’s firm stance. According to TBR Football, personal terms between Trafford and Newcastle were initially agreed as far back as last year. At the time, however, the two clubs failed to find common ground on a transfer fee.
Since then, the situation has evolved. Newcastle have reportedly updated and finalised a new long-term contract proposal with Trafford, which the goalkeeper has accepted. Now, the only obstacle to the transfer is reaching an agreement with Burnley.
Trafford Eager to Make Newcastle Move
The young shot-stopper is said to be “desperate” to complete a move to St James’ Park and is merely awaiting the green light to make the switch official. Trafford views Newcastle as the ideal next step in his burgeoning career and is reportedly enthusiastic about working under Eddie Howe, who is a firm admirer of the player.
Sources indicate that Howe has communicated to the club’s board that he sees Trafford as an essential addition to his squad for the 2025/26 season. The Newcastle boss is looking to strengthen his options between the posts, with Trafford earmarked as a key figure who can provide serious competition to current No.1 Nick Pope.
While Pope remains committed to Newcastle and has expressed a desire to stay and fight for his place, Howe wants increased depth and quality in the goalkeeping department. Trafford is viewed as someone who not only offers that competition but also has the potential to eventually become the club’s long-term first-choice goalkeeper.
A Breakout Season for Trafford
James Trafford played a pivotal role in Burnley’s promotion back to the Premier League last season, impressing fans and pundits alike with his commanding performances and shot-stopping abilities. He conceded just 16 goals throughout the Championship campaign and was central to Burnley’s defensive resilience.
His standout performances didn’t go unnoticed. Burnley boss Scott Parker praised the young goalkeeper’s development during the season, calling him “world-class” in a glowing assessment of his progress.
“There’s no denying that, at the beginning of the season, there was a lot of work to be done with Traff,” Parker told BBC Sport. “But credit to him—he embraced that challenge, took a step back, and committed himself to improving. I’ve seen a young man mature rapidly, and now I have no hesitation in calling him a world-class keeper.”
Should the deal go through, Trafford could become the most expensive English goalkeeper in history—surpassing the likes of Jordan Pickford, whose £30 million move to Everton in 2017 currently holds that record.
Deal Progressing but Not Finalised
Despite the encouraging signs from the player’s camp and Newcastle’s growing confidence, there is still work to be done. Burnley remain unmoved by Newcastle’s previous bids and will only consider a sale if their valuation is met. Sources close to the negotiations suggest that the coming week will be pivotal, as both clubs look to bridge the financial gap and bring the prolonged transfer saga to a conclusion.
If successful, the deal would be seen as a significant coup for Newcastle, as they look to bolster their squad with young, high-potential domestic talent while planning for a future beyond their current first-team core.
As it stands, all eyes are now on the next round of talks, where the final outcome may finally be decided.