James Trafford’s stance on Newcastle move with ‘expensive’ Man City deal on

Newcastle are pursuing an England star who has made ‘positive noises’ about a potential move to St. James’ Park this summer, according to reports.

The Magpies have already completed the signing of goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Reims, with the highly-rated French youngster arriving as part of the club’s long-term plans.

Jaouen is regarded as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in France and Newcastle moved quickly to secure his signature after reaching an agreement with Reims.

The arrival of the 20-year-old demonstrates the club’s continued focus on recruiting emerging talent with significant potential.

Newcastle are also working on other deals across the pitch.

One player attracting plenty of noise is Osasuna sensation Victor Munoz.

The Spanish winger has emerged as a target for the Magpies after impressing with his performances in Spain.

Reports have suggested Newcastle have already put forward an attractive proposal as they attempt to convince the young attacker that St James’ is the right place for the next stage of his career.

Competition remains fierce for Munoz, with other unnamed clubs also making offers (Cadena SER), but the fact Newcastle have moved so early highlights how highly he is rated by the club’s recruitment team.

While attacking reinforcements remain a priority, Eddie Howe could still add another goalkeeper to his ranks after Jaouen.

Indeed, Newcastle continue to explore the possibility of signing another stopper capable of immediately competing at the highest level.

That has once again brought James Trafford into focus.

The Man City goalkeeper has been admired by Newcastle for a long time and the club’s interest stretches back well beyond this summer, with Howe’s side nearly completing a deal last year only for City to pip them at the last minute.

James Trafford keen to join Newcastle from Man City

Now, fresh comments from Telegraph journalist Luke Edwards have provided more insight into the situation.

According to Edwards, Trafford remains Newcastle’s first-choice goalkeeping target.

The journalist explained that the England international, who was included in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, has consistently been viewed as the club’s preferred option whenever discussions about strengthening the position have taken place.

However, Newcastle are approaching the situation carefully.

There is understandable caution given what happened last year.

Trafford spent much of the previous summer appearing destined for a move to Tyneside before circumstances changed and a deal ultimately failed to materialise.

That experience means nobody inside Newcastle is taking anything for granted.

Even so, there are reasons for optimism.

Edwards reports on X, formerly Twitter, that Trafford has once again made encouraging noises regarding the possibility of joining Newcastle.

The biggest challenge remains the financial side of the deal.

Trafford is one of the most highly-rated young goalkeepers in English football and City know exactly how valuable he is.

Any transfer would likely require a substantial fee, while personal terms would also represent a significant commitment in terms of wages, making him a potentially ‘expensive’ move.

There is no doubt about the player’s quality.

Trafford has developed considerably over the past few years and many believe he possesses the attributes needed to eventually become England’s long-term number one.

His shot-stopping ability, confidence in possession and composure under pressure have all attracted widespread praise, particularly during his spell at Burnley.

The 23-year-old was unlucky to be robbed of his number one spot at Eastlands last summer when the club signed Italy star Gianluigi Donnarumma to fill the void left by Ederson.

Now on the hunt for more regular game time and an opportunity to play week in, week out, Howe could offer him exactly that.