James Trafford joins Leeds United | OneFootball

James Trafford has joined Leeds United on a permanent deal.

The 23-year-old goalkeeper made 17 appearances last season, winning both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup having returned to the Club in the summer of 2025.

His outstanding display in the 2-0 Carabao Cup final win over Arsenal was perhaps Trafford’s highlight during his return and his final game coincided with Pep Guardiola’s farewell against Aston Villa last May.

Trafford previously spent eight years with the Blues having joined our Academy in 2015.

He had loan spells with Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers before making a permanent move to Burnley in 2023.

After 73 appearances for Vincent Kompany’s Clarets, Trafford rejoined City before the start of last season.

He went on to win two England caps during his second spell with the Blues, and was included in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, though he didn’t feature in the tournament.

Speaking of his second spell with City, Trafford said: “Manchester City will always mean a lot to me.

“My two spells here were both really positive. To come through the Academy, learn the City way of playing football and spend time with so many top coaches and young players gave me a fantastic platform to have a career in the game.

“And to then come back and win two trophies felt really special.

“I have dreams and ambitions in the game to achieve, but I will always think of City with affection.”

Director of Football, Hugo Viana added: “James showed everyone last season that he’s a top goalkeeper.

“He was a key player for us in both he FA Cup and Carabao Cup – two competitions we were successful in.

“He has many great assets, and he is a top professional. Leeds United are getting a ‘keeper of high quality.

“We wish James all the best with his career from here. He deserves every success.”

Everyone at Manchester City wishes James the very best for the future.

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