Leeds United are weighing up a potential summer move for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, with the fee expected to exceed £30m according to Football League World. The 23-year-old England international rejoined City from Burnley in July 2025 after the club activated their buy-back clause, but he has been restricted to cup appearances and training-ground work behind Ederson and Stefan Ortega. Trafford’s desire for regular first-team football has prompted interest from several Premier League clubs, with Leeds viewing him as the ideal long-term successor to Illan Meslier.
Trafford made his senior City debut in a 4-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this season and has shown composure and exceptional distribution in limited outings. His time at Burnley — where he played every minute of their promotion-winning 2024-25 campaign — demonstrated his readiness for top-flight football, boasting strong shot-stopping and ball-playing metrics. Leeds, pushing for an immediate return to the Premier League under Daniel Farke, see Trafford’s youth, international pedigree and technical quality as a perfect fit for their possession-based approach. His England credentials — he has been part of recent senior squads — add further appeal.
Leeds' Goalkeeper Strategy
Leeds' interest is driven by the need for competition and eventual succession for Meslier. The Brazilian has been solid but prone to high-profile errors, and with promotion the priority, Farke's recruitment focuses on players who can perform at the highest level. Trafford’s Premier League experience and ability to play with his feet align with Leeds' style, while his age offers long-term security compared to short-term options. Southampton and Leicester City are also monitoring developments, though Leeds are believed to be leading the race due to their promotion push and clear pathway to the No1 spot.
Manchester City’s valuation is expected to start north of £30m, reflecting Trafford’s potential, international status and contract until June 2030. City are under no pressure to sell but would listen to substantial offers if Trafford continues to push for regular minutes. A deal would represent shrewd business for Leeds — securing a high-quality keeper at a reasonable price relative to his upside — while providing City with profit on a player they nurtured through their academy.
Market Reaction and Valuation Dynamics
Betting markets have registered the interest, with Leeds installed as favourites to secure Trafford’s signature this summer. Prices on a move away from Manchester City have shortened noticeably, while retention odds have drifted. The latest James Trafford next club odds reflect strong confidence in a Premier League switch, with Leeds' promotion push and clear need for goalkeeper stability seen as the most logical destination. City retain leverage through his long-term contract, but Trafford’s desire for first-team football could influence negotiations.
Trafford’s development has been impressive: from City’s academy to League One with Bolton, promotion with Burnley, and now back at City as a highly-rated prospect. His composure, shot-stopping and distribution mark him as a modern goalkeeper ideally suited to ambitious clubs. Leeds’ pursuit makes particular sense given their need for stability between the posts, while Southampton and Leicester represent viable alternatives if the Yorkshire club cannot agree terms.
Summer Outlook and Goalkeeper Market Context
The summer window will be decisive for Trafford’s future. A move to Leeds would provide regular high-level football and a platform to establish himself as a Premier League No1. Manchester City will demand a premium for a player with significant upside, but his limited minutes could force their hand if he pushes for a transfer. Trafford’s next move will likely be one of the standout goalkeeper transfers of the window, with his blend of youth, experience and technical quality making him a valuable commodity in a market short on top-class options under 25.