Leeds United close on James Trafford, Delap not pursued, Brandt offer still on table | OneFootball

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, Leeds United are very close to finalising a £40m deal for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, a move that would break the club’s transfer record. The agreement is not yet complete, though club figures are positive about completion.

Trafford is on a FIFA-mandated post-World Cup holiday that runs until after August 8. Leeds set a precedent this summer when £34m signing Tarik Muharemovic paused his break for a medical, then resumed it.

A goalkeeper has been a priority and, once secured, Leeds expect to add another keeper as back-up, a centre forward and extra left-back cover.

Spanish forward Carlos Espi, 21, who scored 13 in 27 for Levante last season, is on their shortlist, although no bid has been made. Recruitment up front is likely to skew younger to compete with Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Leeds are not pursuing Chelsea’s Liam Delap.

Two bids remain active. Leeds lodged a best and final offer for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles last week, and the Championship club have not accepted.

An offer to free agent Julian Brandt also remains on the table. His father, Jurgen Brandt, has visited Thorp Arch for talks, with the player’s camp continuing to assess options.

On exits, Valencia’s initial valuation for Largie Ramazani was well above Leeds’ expectations, yet a return to Mestalla after last season’s loan remains possible.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk