Former Newcastle United transfer target James Trafford has sent an interesting message on social media following his tough start at Manchester City.
The goalkeeper was expected to join Newcastle United during the 2025 summer transfer window, but that did not happen. Instead, James Trafford decided to sign for Manchester City and reject the Magpies’ advances.
That has proven to be a mistake, with Trafford stuck on the bench behind fellow summer signing Gianluigi Donnarumma.
It has been reported that Trafford could already leave Manchester City, amid frustration over his situation at the Etihad Stadium.
Would you rather Newcastle sign a ready-made No.1 or a young project player?
This is assuming that Nick Pope retains his starting berth and Aaron Ramsdale isn’t signed permanently…
James Trafford looks ahead after ‘massive ups and downs’
Given that Man City opted to buy Donnarumma as well after bringing in Trafford, it is understandable that the latter is frustrated. He has been limited to just seven appearances this season, despite starting the campaign as Man City’s first-choice stopper.
He has since slipped down the pecking order, and has now posted a rather interesting message on his official Instagram account following the end of 2025.
Alongside a photo of him playing for Burnley last season, Trafford wrote: “A year full of massive ups and downs.”
The post ended with the year ‘2026’ followed by a fingers crossed emoji.
Trafford received a reply from Crystal Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who commented: “Keep shining. The light will come again.”
You can sign ONE defender in January, who are you taking? ✍️
Newcastle United decide against 2026 move for James Trafford
It is unclear what 2026 holds for Trafford, but it would appear that another chance to join Newcastle United is not on the cards.
While Trafford still has admirers within Newcastle United, they are set to take their search for a new goalkeeper elsewhere.
It has been reported by the Daily Mail that Newcastle United are not planning to make a fresh move for Trafford, with his wages seen as a stumbling block.
The Trafford to Newcastle United ship has very much sailed, having failed to sign him during back-to-back summer transfer windows. As it stands, there will not be a third attempt, with Newcastle looking at other options such as Toulouse’s Guillaume Restes.
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