03 July 2023 , 22:53
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Burnley are closing in on the £15m capture of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.
The Premier League new boys, who are led by City legend Vincent Kompany, are looking to bolster their options after winning promotion. They are targeting the man who is currently first choice for England's U21s, putting in some stellar displays for the young Lions.
Trafford has come through the ranks at the Etihad but there is no pathway for him to become City's No 1 whilst the Clarets can offer him the chance to be a starter in the top flight. A deal is close according to reports with Burnley set to pay £15m up front and a potential £4m in add-ons.
Trafford spent last season on loan at Bolton in League One but has previously made his lofty ambitions known, targeting the biggest competition in Europe and always appeared open to leaving Manchester if it aided his career goals.
He said: "My long-term goal is playing in the Champions League and for England. If you want to be in the Champions League you've got to be in the top four teams in England. Whether it's Man City or any other of the big clubs, I believe I will be at that level. Given the opportunity I'd be able to perform."
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If Trafford remained at City he would be one of four goalkeepers pushing for a start. Ederson is the club's clear No 1 with other shotstoppers all seeking minutes in the cup competitions. Last term Stefan Ortega was second choice, starting in the FA Cup final win at Wembley.
The goalkeeper was on loan at Bolton last termZack Steffan was forced to head out on loan and is being linked with a permanent exit. Leicester are keen on the goalkeeper who could move on with Trafford another option for the recently crowned treble winners.
The young England goalkeeper, who is yet to concede at the U21 Euros, has said: "The most important thing for goalies is to be playing and if you're not playing it is really tough. Next season I'll play every week. I can't sit on the bench."
City's potential sale of Trafford would raise further funds as they go through a summer reshuffle. Big names have left with Ilkay Gundogan heading to Barcelona whilst others, such as Bernardo Silva, could follow. Mateo Kovacic has arrived from Chelsea whilst RB Leipzig's Joško Gvardiol continues to be linked with a mega-money move to the Premier League.