“SHOCKING Newcastle Bombshell: ‘World-Class’ Superstar Begs to Join in Mega Transfer Coup!”

Newcastle United and Burnley remain some distance apart in negotiations for James Trafford, but fresh discussions are scheduled for next week in an effort to break the impasse.

Burnley are holding firm on their valuation of the England international, reportedly seeking over £30 million for the 22-year-old.

Sources have informed TBR Football that the Clarets have made it clear to both Trafford and Premier League suitors, including Newcastle, that they are under no obligation to sell this summer.

Newcastle have already seen a couple of bids turned down in recent weeks, but the club remains confident they are edging closer to a deal.

Despite Burnley’s stubborn stance, the Magpies are encouraged by progress made in other areas of the move.

Personal terms between Trafford and Newcastle were agreed some time ago, dating back to last year when the player first expressed his interest in the switch.

Although no transfer materialized at that time, the contract terms have since been updated and are now reportedly in place for a long-term deal.

Trafford pushing for Newcastle move

After an excellent 2024/25 season with Burnley, during which he conceded just 16 goals, Trafford is believed to be eager to take the next step in his career.

The young shot-stopper has had his sights set on a move to St James’ Park for quite some time and is now waiting for the go-ahead to complete the transfer.

Eddie Howe is also pushing for the deal, having made Trafford a key target as he looks to strengthen his goalkeeping options ahead of the new campaign.

The Newcastle boss believes Trafford is the ideal candidate to compete with Nick Pope for the number one shirt.

Pope, for his part, is understood to be committed to staying at Newcastle and is prepared to fight for his position, which sets up healthy competition in the goalkeeping department.

A standout year at Burnley

Trafford’s second season with Burnley marked a major improvement following their relegation the previous year.

His performances drew praise from manager Scott Parker, who labelled him “world-class” in an interview with BBC Sport back in April.

“There was a lot of work to do with Traff at the beginning of the season,” Parker said. “He had to reflect and mature, and to be fair to him, he’s done just that. He’s become a world-class goalkeeper.”

Ongoing talks could see Trafford become the most expensive English goalkeeper in history if a deal is eventually reached.