Newcastle United have big plans for their goalkeeping department but James Trafford may not be involved.
The transfer links between Newcastle United and Trafford go back years.
At one point earlier this summer, it seemed as if the former Burnley goalkeeper was set to move to St James’ Park.
However, Trafford snubbed Newcastle to join Manchester City instead, though he has since struggled for game time following the signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Who is the one player you were FURIOUS with Newcastle United for selling? Go back as far as you want!
I’ll start: I’m still not over Mike Ashley selling Andy Carroll to Liverpool all those years ago!😡
Trafford has started only seven games for Pep Guardiola this season, just three of which have come in the Premier League.
As such, Newcastle have been linked with a fresh move for Trafford, although a conclusion now appears to have been reached.
Newcastle United don’t think they will sign James Trafford now
According to iNews, Newcastle do have plans to address their goalkeeping situation during the summer transfer window.
Nick Pope is currently the first-choice but has faced extensive criticism this season, while there is no guarantee that Aaron Ramsdale will be signed permanently.
The report adds that while there is still an admiration for Trafford, some within the recruitment department believe the ship has sailed on his potential signing.
Instead, options within European football are reportedly being considered.
I’m one of Newcastle’s strangest January signings, but who am I?
He smashed it in the Champions League to be fair, why couldn’t he do that for us? 😂
Newcastle United’s plans for the transfer market now make so much more sense
Missing out on Trafford earlier this summer was a blow and summed up the struggles the club endured during the early part of the window.
What would make the situation worse, however, is wasting more time on this deal. Guardiola is a big fan of Trafford and, at City, there will likely be games for him considering the amount of fixtures they tend to play every season.
Newcastle have to pivot in the transfer market. For too long, they have put too much stock in Premier League experience, and have either been priced out or beaten to a signing by a domestic rival.
Now, Newcastle are prepared to make a change in their recruitment policy. They are seemingly ready to target gems from other markets, who may offer better value for money.
That feels wise, given how much money Newcastle have so far wasted on signings made earlier this summer.
Moving on from the Trafford saga would be a big statement of intent. It has dragged on for so long and that fans could be forgiven for wanting some kind of definitive resolution.
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