James Trafford, the young goalkeeper from Burnley is reportedly the target of an unexpected £20 million bid by Chelsea.
The 21-year-old who cost £15 million, left Manchester City to join Burnley in the summer, following a string of standout international performances.
While playing for England Under-21s, James Trafford had a big influence and helped the squad led by Lee Carsley, to the European Championship.
His incredible tournament demonstrated James Trafford’s ability as a first class goalkeeper saves which saw them give up just one goal.
He moved to Burnley after a successful loan spell at League One team, Bolton Wanderers, which helped him achieve success ahead.
Even though Burnley was demoted from the Premier League this year, Trafford’s efforts have drawn interest from several teams including Chelsea.
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During his 28 Premier League games for Burnley, the youthful goalkeeper only kept two clean sheets as Vincent Kompany’s team struggled defensively and ultimately dropped to the Championship.
The Sun claims that Chelsea is preparing a £20 million offer for Trafford and is eager to sign him. As a future first-choice goalkeeper, Trafford is seen by the Blues as a promising talent.
Chelsea thinks Trafford can emerge as England’s starting goalkeeper in the future even in light of Burnley’s challenging season.
This interest stems from Chelsea’s need to find a long-term goalkeeping solution.
Due to Robert Sanchez’s injuries this season, Serbian goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic had to fill in at Stamford Bridge.
Trafford though matches the profile Chelsea’s management is aiming for as they search for a more long-term solution.
With Burnley, James Trafford faced a difficult transition to the Premier League.
It would always be difficult to transition from Bolton’s fantastic season to the European Under-21 Championship where he performed flawlessly.
Trafford displayed flashes of brilliance despite Burnley’s relegation but his defence frequently failed to keep up with the better calibre of opponents in the Premier League leaving him vulnerable.
Despite conceding 62 goals in 28 games, Trafford’s stats do not accurately represent his skills or potential.
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Burnley’s defensive ignorance frequently exposed him and the team’s defensive record should not be the only factor used to evaluate his overall play.
But for the last ten games of the season, Kosovo international, Arijanet Muric started in James Trafford’s place. Chelsea’s interest in Trafford is a sign of their confidence in his future prospects.
Should the transfer happen, James Trafford would have the chance to hone his abilities at a team with greater aspirations and possibly establish himself as a crucial member of Chelsea’s squad in the years to come.
