In a recent report on Patreon, journalist Alan Nixon mentioned that Newcastle United are eyeing a move for Burnley keeper James Trafford this summer. It has been stated that the Magpies are showing interest in recruiting the English custodian later this year.
Trafford’s Difficult Season In The Premier League
The 21-year-old has endured a tough campaign at Turf Moor as he has struggled to keep things solid at the back for the Lancashire club in the Premier League. Trafford has made 28 appearances for Burnley this season, conceding 62 goals and keeping just two clean sheets in all competitions.
The English goalie has done well to average 1.4 clearances and 6.5 long balls per 90 minutes in the Premier League. However, he has lacked quality when distributing possession from the back after completing just 62.1% of his attempted passes in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Burnley will expire in the summer of 2027 which could make it difficult for the Magpies to sign him on the cheap in the upcoming transfer window.
Is Trafford A Good Choice For Newcastle United Head Coach Eddie Howe?
Trafford is a solid handler of the ball and has got decent reflexes that help him make some important saves at the back. He usually goes long with his goal-kicks but needs to find a way to improve his passing accuracy if he wants to be a success story in the Premier League.
Standing at 1.92m, Trafford is a towering presence inside his half. However, he is still quite inexperienced at the highest level and would need time to prove his worth in top-flight football.
At 21, Trafford has the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. Hence, he would be a great choice for the Magpies to consider in the long run. The English keeper would undeniably add more quality to Eddie Howe’s match-day squad. He might even help the Tyneside club challenge across all fronts in the coming years.
Trafford is good enough to serve as a decent back-up to Nick Pope at St. James’ Park. Therefore, Howe would be wise to try everything in his power to lure him to Tyneside later this summer.
