Newcastle have now taken over Chelsea in the pursuit of highly-rated Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford.
According to The Athletic, talks have started between Newcastle and Burnley to conclude a deal to sign the young goalkeeper for this summer, where his valuation is in the range of £15-20 million.
Trafford moved to Burnley from Manchester City last summer in a deal that cost up to £19m.
He was way up in the list of potential signings since Chelsea lost faith in their reserve keeper, Robert Sanchez, to claim the first choice due to Kepa Arrizabalaga’s transfer to Real Madrid.
With an injury to the new signing, Đorđe Petrović, Chelsea started looking out for a young goalkeeper talent who has already played in the Premier League.
So, they included Trafford only last week to their list and they are a lot behind, with the Magpies having acted fast.
Newcastle may have missed European qualification, but they are doing everything to ensure they rebuilt a team capable of competing with the very best.
The move for Trafford is one that could have a signifying importance in their summer plans as they look to reclaim their spot in Eurpoean competitions, which Chelsea ultimately denied them last season.
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Newcastle’s interest in Trafford is guided by his flourishing performances and potential.
Remember, Trafford is aged only 21, yet he has already shown his performance in the Premier League at the very topmost level.
Experienced and very talented, he belongs on the wish lists of clubs looking to reinforce their goal posts.
The Athletic’s report indicates that the talks between Newcastle and Burnley are gaining momentum and both clubs want to have a resolution to the deal.
Trafford’s signing for Newcastle would be the career defining moment.
He will be given an opportunity further to develop and become a top-tier goalie.
Such a signing would be a declaration of intent towards their rivaling competitors, though, more importantly, it would serve in the strengthening of the Newcastle squad.
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Nobody knows as the transfer window hots up whether Chelsea will eventually put a serious bid on the table for Trafford, or whether Newcastle will finally nip the lot by making those early moves on a highly chased goalkeeper.
With Burnley increasingly willing to sell, the next few weeks of action will determine the future of Trafford.
