£20m Star Keen on Newcastle Move as Club Chief Responds
Newcastle United Remain Linked to James Trafford Signing
The Magpies appeared poised to sign Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford during the summer, but their Financial Fair Play (FFP) issues thwarted that plan.
Instead, Newcastle United secured Odyseas Vlachodimos from Nottingham Forest, with Elliot Anderson moving in the opposite direction.
These transfers were largely financial decisions, leaving Newcastle with the shorter end of the deal.
Despite an abundance of goalkeepers, Newcastle remain keen on Trafford.
Club officials view him as a long-term successor to Nick Pope as their number one goalkeeper, making him an ideal target for the future.
Newcastle missed out on signing Trafford on deadline day, and his potential arrival in January remains uncertain.
Reports suggest that Trafford is eager to join the Magpies, with the club reportedly considering a £20 million bid. However, several conditions must align for the deal to materialize.
JJ Watt Comments on Trafford Amid Newcastle Interest
Burnley are determined to retain Trafford, and co-owner JJ Watt has now addressed the 22-year-old’s future.
During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Watt praised Trafford while discussing Burnley’s defensive strengths under manager Scott Parker.
“Goalie, great – James Trafford,” Watt said. “Phenomenal. Young goalie. Future England number one. Fantastic keeper.”
In response, McAfee speculated that Trafford wouldn’t stay at Burnley long if he’s as good as Watt claims.
Watt replied, “Don’t worry about it. We’ll figure it out. It’ll all be…fine.”
Dubravka’s Future May Block Newcastle’s Move
Watt’s comments offered little reassurance about Trafford’s long-term stay at Turf Moor.
However, signing him in January would be challenging for Newcastle unless another goalkeeper departs St. James’ Park.
Martin Dubravka is the only Newcastle goalkeeper linked with an exit.
While there were rumors of a move to Saudi Arabia, these appear to have stalled.
Newcastle are reportedly looking to keep the 35-year-old and offer him a new contract, though Dubravka is hesitant to commit.
Unless Newcastle change their stance and allow Dubravka to leave, a January move for Trafford seems unlikely.
For now, Watt may have little to worry about regarding Newcastle’s interest in Burnley’s young star.
