NEWCASTLE SET TO LAUNCH SHOCK £150M RAID FOR MAN CITY’S UNTUCHABLE SUPERSTAR AFTER PREMIER LEAGUE GIVES THEM SECRET GREEN LIGHT – CITY IN TOTAL PANIC MODE! You won’t believe who they’re targeting… and it could end Pep’s dynasty OVERNIGHT!
Newcastle ready to intensify their January pursuit of James Trafford pending Man City’s approval.
Former Man United and Sunderland chief scout Mick Brown — who remains extremely well-connected across elite football circles — has revealed that 23-year-old James Trafford is still firmly among Newcastle United’s preferred goalkeeping targets.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Brown explained that the young shot-stopper is highly regarded at St James’ Park and continues to feature prominently in their long-term plans.
Newcastle attempted to bring Trafford in during the summer window, only to see him choose a return to Manchester City.
However, his opportunities at the Etihad have since been reduced due to the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma, whose signing has pushed Trafford further down the pecking order.
According to Brown’s comments to Football Insider on 20 November, Manchester City could now be prepared to sanction Trafford’s departure in January, either through a permanent transfer or a loan move, as interest in the England international continues to grow.
Despite limited minutes this season, Trafford’s reputation remains strong thanks to several standout campaigns at Burnley, and he is expected to attract significant offers once the window reopens.
Newcastle ready to move for Trafford
Brown had also previously reported on 10 November that Newcastle may look to replace current first-choice goalkeeper Nick Pope due to his inconsistent showings at St James’ Park.
The experienced former scout, who spent over a decade shaping recruitment at Manchester United during their most dominant era, believes Trafford would be an ideal fit for the Tyneside club after they failed to secure him in the summer.
“Newcastle’s interest in Trafford doesn’t surprise me,” Brown told Football Insider.
“They tried to get him in the last window, and if he becomes available in January, they’ll be poised to act.
If City agree to let him leave — whether on loan or permanently — a move to Newcastle could finally happen.”
Brown added that while the switch to Manchester City initially looked like an excellent opportunity for Trafford, Donnarumma’s sudden arrival transformed the situation, limiting his development pathway.
He believes the player and Newcastle would both benefit from a fresh move, though everything hinges on City’s willingness to negotiate.
Newcastle preparing January backing for Eddie Howe
Football Insider reported on 24 November that Newcastle are planning a proactive January window, targeting multiple reinforcements to support Eddie Howe after an inconsistent start to the campaign — despite their morale-boosting victory over Manchester City.
The club now feel compelled to strengthen key areas to maintain competitiveness.
Howe is seeking a new left-back, right-back, central midfielder, and potentially an additional striker, due to concerns regarding squad depth across all four positions.
Football Insider also revealed on 23 November that the Magpies are actively looking for a striker amid worries over Yoane Wissa’s injury situation and uncertainty surrounding Will Osula’s long-term role.
Furthermore, Howe wants greater depth in midfield, as reliance on Joelinton, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães has left limited cover behind the first-choice trio.
