Leeds United rivalling Newcastle United in the race for James Trafford | OneFootball

Leeds United have held direct talks with Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, as they step up efforts to address their pressing goalkeeping situation ahead of the new season.

The ‘fantastic’ 23-year-old England international has been identified as Leeds’ top target in goal, with the Yorkshire club placing him at the forefront of their recruitment agenda.

Leeds have tracked Trafford for some time now and are now pursuing discussions with the goalkeeper following his return from North America.

However, the Whites face strong Premier League competition, with Newcastle United also closely monitoring Trafford this window.

Addressing the goalkeeping vacancy is the top priority for Director of Football Adam Underwood. With Illan Meslier already departed, Karl Darlow having recently joined Manchester United, and Lucas Perri linked with a loan move to Torino after a challenging Premier League campaign, Leeds are light in the goalkeeping department.

While Daniel Farke’s men embark on their pre-season tour of the United States, Leeds’ recruitment executives are working on a deal for Trafford, prioritising this over other targets.

At the same time, Leeds are advancing an equally ambitious move in attacking midfield, having submitted a formal contract offer to German playmaker Julian Brandt.

The 30-year-old is a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Borussia Dortmund. In a significant boost for the West Yorkshire club, representatives close to Brandt visited Leeds’ Thorp Arch training ground last week.

While Leeds face competition from across Europe for the high-profile German international, his camp’s willingness to evaluate the club’s infrastructure highlights genuine interest in the project.

Alongside their pursuit of Trafford, Leeds are demonstrating serious ambition to equip Farke with proven elite talent for the upcoming campaign.