Newcastle United continue to hold talks to sign Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, according to Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie.
Writing on the Sky Sports transfer live blog feed (8 June, 13:51 pm), the reliable journalist shares that the Magpies have lodged an opening bid to sign Trafford.
Newcastle have been heavily interested in signing Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, but a potential move could prove too costly. Considering that the Magpies are walking on a PSR tightrope, they can hardly afford to spend lavishly.
An opening offer in the region of £15 million has been submitted, but Burnley are likely to reject their bid. According to Craig Hope, the Clarets are demanding a fee closer to £20 million.
Chelsea, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich have also tracked the 21-year-old goalkeeper, but the Magpies are currently leading the race for his signature.
Busy summer window for Newcastle United
Eddie Howe has been looking to sign a new goalkeeper for a long time. Ramsdale was linked with a move to the Tyneside club in January, but no official offer was made by the Magpies.
Nick Pope remains the first-choice keeper at St James’ Park, but Howe needs a reliable deputy. Martin Dubravka played regularly in the second half of the season in the absence of Pope through injury, but he hardly exuded confidence at the back.
If a new goalkeeper arrives, the veteran Dubravka will be shown the exit door. Trafford impressed heavily under Vincent Kompany, although lost his place towards the end of the season.
He was even selected in England’s preliminary squad for the Euro 2024 championships but didn’t make the final squad. Nevertheless, he is a player with great potential and Newcastle should look to reach an agreement with Burnley to sign him.
The Magpies are also heavily keen to land a centre-back, and they are close to signing Llyod Kelly from AFC Bournemouth on a free transfer.
