Newcastle United have long been linked with a move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford.
Trafford has been in fine form for the Clarets this season, proving crucial to their quickfire return to the Premier League amid constant rumours about a move to Newcastle United.
The 22-year-old has been a major part upon which Scott Parker has built an exceptionally tight defence at Turf Moor and the Lancashire club would no doubt love to keep him now they are back in the top flight.
Still, it’s said that Newcastle have agreed personal terms with Trafford, having attempted to sign him last summer.
It was even suggested back in February by The Daily Mail that Newcastle expect to sign Trafford this summer, regardless of what happened to Parker’s side this season.
Manchester United also want to sign Trafford and his name looks likely to feature rather heavily across gossip columns and newspaper reports over the coming weeks and months.
However, the prospect of staying at Burnley of course cannot be ruled out.
Taking to social media, Trafford confirmed how “special” he found it to get promoted with the club.
James Trafford makes new Burnley statement
Trafford pulled off a brilliant save as the Clarets beat Watford over the Easter weekend, before they confirmed their promotion with a 2-1 win over Sheffield United on Monday.
So much has been made about Trafford’s future but the goalkeeper sounded delighted to have achieved such a feat at his current club.
Captioning a photo on Instagram after the victory, he wrote: “Incredibly proud day for everyone associated with Burnley and to achieve it with this set of players and staff makes it even more special.”
James Trafford goalkeeper stats after “world class” claim
Trafford recently described himself as a “world class goalkeeper”, albeit with a smile on his face when responding to Parker’s assertion that he was in that bracket.
Whatever fans may think of that, the level of his form this season cannot be understated. The caveat that he’s not playing elite-level football should of course be applied but that’s to take nothing away from what a brilliant campaign he’s enjoyed.
| Goals Conceded | Save Percentage | Clean Sheet Percentage |
| 15 | 84.1% | 65.1% |
Though the fact Burnley have conceded only 15 goals in 44 games is clearly a team effort, Trafford has played a leading role.
As per FBREF data, no Championship goalkeeper boasts a better save percentage (84.5%) or clean sheet percentage (65.1%).
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