James Trafford has shared an interesting message on social media while talks between Newcastle United and Burnley continue.
Things have all seemed to go a bit quiet regarding negotiations between the Magpies and the Clarets over shot-stopper James Trafford, but he remains Eddie Howe’s number one target between the sticks.
Trafford is a long-term Newcastle United target, having nearly signed in 2024 before PSR concerns forced the Magpies to back out of a deal. However, 2025 is a completely different story, and Newcastle are eager to get the deal over the line ahead of next season.
It appears Burnley are preparing for the England international to leave. Reports earlier this week stated that Burnley are interested in signing Sam Johnstone, another England international who would be a likely replacement for Trafford at Turf Moor.
Pete Graves thinks Trafford is desperate to join Newcastle. He is certainly eager, having already agreed personal terms nearly a month ago. Despite that, the two clubs remain apart in their valuations.
In the meantime, Trafford has posted a new picture on social media which confirms fans’ suspicions earlier this week.
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James Trafford posts cryptic social media picture amid Newcastle United talks
The Magpies were dealt a blow earlier this month when it was revealed that Trafford had returned to Burnley training, despite Newcastle fans being told a deal could be done soon.
Burnley are on a pre-season camp in Portugal, but pictures on their social media account confirm that Trafford was nowhere to be seen, suggesting a deal with Newcastle was closer than ever.
Now, the 22-year-old has posted a new image on his Instagram story, appearing to be training by himself in the gym.
In the story he wrote, “on a mission” – reflecting the wording on the wall in the picture – which could also be another subtle message about his future.
It remains to be seen if Trafford is part of Burnley’s pre-season friendly against one of Shrewsbury Town or Huddersfield Town next weekend after his update.
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Newcastle United cannot let the James Trafford saga drag on for much longer
It comes as no shock that Newcastle fans were expecting a busy summer transfer window after a very successful 2024/25 campaign. However, there has been some slight disappointment at their business so far.
Anthony Elanga signed for Newcastle in July, but he is the only player they can flaunt as a new signing so far this summer. The transfer window has just over a month to go until it shuts, and there are just a few weeks left until the start of the Premier League season.
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Howe wanted at least one new player for pre-season; he got Elanga, but will surely have been expecting more by now. Newcastle’s heavily publicised pursuit of a striker surely does not help, as other clubs can see their activity.
Newcastle must now step up their pursuit of Trafford and get the deal done ahead of next season.
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