Aston Villa lead Tottenham in race to sign Man City goalkeeper James Trafford
Aston Villa have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford this summer, according to sources speaking to TEAMtalk. The Premier League club is reportedly 'very keen' on the 23-year-old England international, who is seeking regular first-team football after a limited role at the Etihad Stadium this season.
Villa's interest comes amid uncertainty over the long-term future of their current number one, Emiliano Martinez. The Argentine World Cup winner has been consistently linked with a move away from Villa Park, and the club views Trafford as a potential long-term successor. Sources indicate Villa are preparing a concrete push for the goalkeeper, with the prospect of Champions League football under Unai Emery a significant incentive.
Trafford rejoined Manchester City from Burnley last summer in a deal worth £27 million but has found himself behind Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma in the pecking order. His contract, which runs until 2030, gives City a strong negotiating position, and any sale is expected to command a fee in excess of £30 million. The Premier League champions are understood to be willing to sanction a departure if a suitable offer arrives, allowing Trafford to play regularly and bolster his chances of a senior England call-up.
Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring the situation, with new head coach Roberto De Zerbi said to be an admirer of Trafford's distribution and composure. However, Spurs' interest is contingent on securing their Premier League status, as the club is currently embroiled in a relegation battle. This uncertainty places Villa in a stronger position to complete a deal at this stage.
A third club, Leeds United, has also been linked with a move for Trafford as they seek a potential upgrade on Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow. However, the Championship side is expected to struggle to compete with the financial power and top-flight prestige of Villa and Tottenham, should Spurs survive. Trafford's career at Burnley, where he was a regular before his return to City, demonstrated his capability as a Premier League-level goalkeeper, making him a coveted asset.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this potential transfer. Villa's final league position and European qualification, Tottenham's fight for survival, and Manchester City's valuation will all shape the outcome. For now, the Midlands club appears best placed to secure a player seen as one of England's most promising goalkeeping talents.
