Cole Palmer’s verdict shows why James Trafford could be one of Leeds United’s shrewdest summer deals | OneFootball

Leeds United are accelerating their summer rebuild under Daniel Farke and are in active talks with Manchester City to sign James Trafford, according to multiple reports. With Newcastle United stepping back and the goalkeeper leaning towards Elland Road, Leeds appear in pole position.

Trafford, 23, is an England international viewed as a long-term anchor in goal. His appeal is amplified by the ringing endorsement of international and former academy team-mate Cole Palmer.

“Wow. He’s so good. You could see it in the academy. Even in training, he’s so hard to score past. I’m just glad everyone else is seeing it,” said Palmer. “He knows himself how good he is, but he’s not arrogant. He’s a nice lad. He’s a normal lad who believes in himself.” Speaking to the BBC in 2023.

Raised in a Cumbrian farming family, Trafford once had to explain the offside rule at home and learned to drive on a tractor before a car. He joined City from Carlisle at age 12, arriving with quiet assurance and clear athletic upside.

For Farke, landing Trafford would address an immediate need in goal and add a keeper with World Cup credentials and evident belief.

The price remains to be seen. City sold Trafford to Burnley for £19million in 2023, then bought him back for £27million last year, so any deal is unlikely to be cheap.

Source: Leedsunited.news