Aston Villa confirmed as potential summer suitor for Manchester City goalkeeper | OneFootball

Manchester City are likely to field interest from Aston Villa this summer as they face a fight to retain the services of impressive back-up goalkeeper, James Trafford.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a somewhat difficult spell since returning to the Etihad Stadium from Burnley, establishing himself as the primary deputy to Italian international Gianluigi Donnarumma as opposed to taking the No.1 role as initially anticipated.

Despite limited minutes in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League this term, Trafford has remained a focal point in cup competitions, proving his worth during City’s successful Carabao Cup run and their recent FA Cup quarter-final demolition of Liverpool.

However, the undisputed status of Donnarumma between the sticks has left Trafford weighing up his long-term options. But with City in the midst of a title chase – sitting just six points behind leaders Arsenal with a game in hand – the club’s hierarchy is desperate to maintain squad harmony.

Why Aston Villa want James Trafford

With that being said, they are increasingly aware that a player of James Trafford’s calibre may not be content with a seat on the bench for another season.

Now, according to MailSport’s Tom Collomosse, Aston Villa are keeping a close eye on James Trafford, as they contemplate listening to offers for current first choice goalkeeper Emi Martinez this summer.

A move to Villa Park would represent a significant shift in the Premier League’s goalkeeping landscape with Martinez – a World Cup winner and fan favourite at Aston Villa – recently seeing his season disrupted by a calf issue.

What will Manchester City’s stance be on Trafford?

Aston Villa are likely to view James Trafford as not just a reliable replacement, but as a long-term investment who fits the profile of the young, homegrown talent favoured by the club’s project.

Manchester City, however, are expected to play hardball when it comes to the prospect of a permanent sale.

Under the stewardship of Director of Football Hugo Viana, the Blues have made it clear that they will not let their elite academy graduate leave on the cheap, with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also credited with interest and a bidding war potentially breaking out to take any sale figure in well in excess of £40 million.

The most likely scenario for Manchester City this summer is for the club to prefer a temporary move for the exciting goalkeeper, but perhaps sanction a permanent exit should the deal terms be favourable.