Tottenham Hotspur are assessing a potential January move for James Trafford as the Manchester City goalkeeper grows increasingly unsettled over his lack of playing time. According to Transfermarkt, the 23-year-old is open to leaving City only five months after returning from Burnley, with Pep Guardiola’s decision to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma effectively blocking his route into the starting XI.
Trafford was initially recruited with the expectation that he would become City’s first-choice goalkeeper, but Donnarumma’s deadline-day arrival has relegated him to a peripheral role. The England hopeful has made just three Premier League appearances this season, leaving his ambition of challenging Jordan Pickford for the national team spot increasingly unrealistic.
His performances for Burnley last season — including a Championship record of just 16 goals conceded and 30 clean sheets — earned him admirers across the division. Tottenham are among the sides now exploring whether Trafford could be part of their long-term plan, particularly with concerns growing around the form of current goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
Vicario, who has generally impressed since arriving in north London, has suffered a dip in performances this campaign, making several high-profile errors. Speculation has also surfaced linking him with a potential move to Inter Milan, creating further uncertainty. If a departure materialises, Spurs would require a younger, long-term option — a profile Trafford fits perfectly.
Trafford’s desire to remain in England could work in Tottenham’s favour. The goalkeeper understands that regular Premier League minutes are essential if he is to catch the eye of Thomas Tuchel and remain part of England’s evolving squad plans. Spurs offer a competitive environment and a clear pathway to the No.1 shirt should Vicario’s situation change.
However, they are not alone. Newcastle United are regarded as early frontrunners. The Magpies attempted to sign Trafford in the summer before City hijacked the move, and they remain keen despite currently rotating Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope. Neither goalkeeper has fully convinced, and Newcastle’s Champions League ambitions make Trafford an appealing long-term project.
Aston Villa and Wolves have also been linked. Villa face ongoing uncertainty around Emiliano Martínez, who has previously explored a move away from the Midlands. Should a serious offer arrive for the World Cup winner, Trafford would be viewed as a capable successor. Wolves, meanwhile, are in desperate need of stability between the posts, though their precarious league position may weaken their chances of attracting the player.
Chelsea are another outsider mentioned. While Robert Sánchez has improved significantly this season, the Stamford Bridge hierarchy perpetually scans the goalkeeper market for long-term solutions. Trafford’s age, profile and development curve make him a name worth monitoring, even if a bid is not expected imminently.
For Trafford, the priority is simple: consistent minutes. City’s ambition to compete on all fronts means Guardiola is unlikely to demote Donnarumma, and the pathway for the Englishman looks increasingly blocked. Should a suitable offer arrive in January, City are expected to consider it — particularly if Trafford pushes for a move.
With Tottenham facing uncertainty around Vicario, and with multiple clubs prepared to act early in the window, Trafford’s future is shaping up to be one of the more intriguing goalkeeper storylines of the January market. If Spurs decide to move decisively, they could find themselves at the front of a competitive queue for one of England’s most promising keepers.