Newcastle still interested in James Trafford, Manchester City want close to £54m | OneFootball

Newcastle United continue to show strong interest in goalkeeper James Trafford, but their pursuit faces a significant financial hurdle, with Manchester City demanding nearly double the fee they originally paid.

The Magpies are determined to land the highly rated shot-stopper, keeping him high on their summer recruitment agenda after the arrival of Ewen Jaouen earlier this summer.

Newcastle spent much of last summer pursuing Trafford, only for Manchester City to activate a last-minute buy-back clause, re-signing him for an initial £27 million.

However, the move has not gone as planned for the ‘world-class’ 23-year-old. Trafford moved to the Etihad Stadium expecting to compete for the No. 1 shirt but ultimately spent the season as second fiddle to Italian international Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Eager to avoid another year on the bench, Trafford is open to a move to St James’ Park. Despite his back-up status, City are unwilling to let him leave on the cheap.

For Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, signing a new starting goalkeeper is a top priority. Trafford’s elite distribution and shot-stopping prowess make him an ideal long-term successor to Nick Pope, who is expected to be sold this summer with just one year left on his current contract.

While Newcastle are strong contenders for Trafford, Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa are also monitoring the situation.

However, with Trafford’s close family managing his affairs rather than an agency, Newcastle hope the player’s clear desire for a move to Tyneside will give them an edge in the transfer race.