Newcastle United announcement suddenly starts to make sense as more news on James Trafford comes out

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The reason for Newcastle United’s attempts to keep John Ruddy is beginning to look clearer amid their plans to sign James Trafford.  

Trafford was a Newcastle United transfer target last summer too but ultimately remained at Burnley and played a starring role as they won promotion back to the Premier League.  

Geordie Boot Boys understands that Newcastle are willing to pay £30million for Trafford, which would equal the record fee paid for an English goalkeeper.  

However, the Clarets are in a strong position to demand more after winning promotion from the Championship, so it remains to be seen if a deal can be done.

Even if they sign Trafford, however, it seems the club have a plan in place for Ruddy.  

Newcastle have confirmed they are in contract talks with Ruddy, despite the fact he didn’t play a single competitive game last season. 

Now, an update from The Athletic provides fresh insight into why they are doing that.  

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Newcastle United want James Trafford to learn from John Ruddy  

Eddie Howe thinks Ruddy is a “vital” player at Newcastle, with his experience behind the scenes helping drive standards in training. 

As such, the report claims that the veteran could be used as a role model for Trafford if Newcastle finally land the 22-year-old this summer.

With that in mind, Newcastle’s announcement on Ruddy makes sense.

Clearly, they believe his vast knowledge of the game would help Trafford settle into life on Tyneside.  

What Eddie Howe has said about John Ruddy

Howe clearly believes Ruddy can provide something in the squad even despite the fact he doesn’t play.

That, in theory, could help Trafford.

While the Burnley ‘keeper was excellent last season, his time in the Premier League during the 2023/24 campaign was rather bruising, albeit his team’s struggles cannot be attributed to just him alone. 

Ruddy’s career has taken him to the elite level. He played for England in 2012, so has seen it all. 

In February, he said: “John has been brilliant behind the scenes. He has fully embraced everything we’ve asked him to do. He’s at youth games. He’s really invested in trying to help people. 

“Every player I’m sure he’s used his experience in some way. John has been a vital part of what we’ve done this year.”