Aston Villa have held initial talks with James Trafford’s representatives in recent weeks | OneFootball

Aston Villa have held initial talks with the representatives of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford in recent weeks.

Manager Unai Emery could need a new goalie, with Emiliano Martinez likely to leave the club this summer.

Trafford has now emerged as a target for the Villans, and he is expected to leave Man City this summer. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on him.

However, wages are a stumbling block for the Magpies, while Spurs need to stay up to have any chance of signing Trafford.

Villa are not favourites to sign the Englishman, but securing Champions League football for next season could boost their chances.

Trafford joined Man City last summer but lost his spot to Gianluigi Donnarumma.

He has not played in the Premier League since the Italian arrived and has made 14 appearances in all competitions this term.

A move to Villa could appeal to Trafford, as he would have the chance to establish himself as the first choice if Martinez leaves this summer.

Playing regularly at club level could also help him boost his chances of becoming England’s number one, and a summer exit from Man City is all but guaranteed.

Villa are fifth in the Premier League table heading into the final three fixtures, and four more points will guarantee them a place in next season’s Champions League.

Trafford would be a great addition to the Midlands club, but more goalkeeping targets could emerge in the coming weeks as Emery decides what is best for his squad.