Real Madrid could ruin Newcastle United’s long-standing attempts to sign James Trafford this summer

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Newcastle United have long been linked with a move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford. 

Despite the fact Newcastle United have a number of goalkeepers on their books as things stand, Trafford is continually touted as a target. 

Trafford wants to join Newcastle this summer but the club still have to convince the Clarets – who have just won promotion to the Premier League under Scott Parker – to sell.  

Even if they do that, rival interest could emerge too. Manchester United have also been linked with Trafford, and it now appears as if Real Madrid could force Brighton into the mix. 

• READ MORE: Shay Given casts fresh doubt on James Trafford to Newcastle United despite terms being ‘agreed’

Real Madrid chain reaction could scupper Newcastle United plans to sign James Trafford  

According to The Sun, the Spanish giants are considering what would be a shock move for Seagulls goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. 

They are reportedly looking for a long-term replacement for Belgian custodian Thibaut Courtois and consider both the Dutchman and Arsenal’s David Raya as potential options.

If Verbruggen were to leave, it’s claimed Brighton could turn their attention to either Trafford or Caoimhin Kelleher, who has also been linked with Newcastle.

What James Trafford wants to join Newcastle United

Trafford has described himself as “world class” after enjoying a fine season at Championship level for Burnley, conceding only 16 goals in 45 games.  

As a result, the 22-year-old is in a strong position to make some big demands if he’s to move club this summer. 

Indeed, it’s thought that Trafford wants first-team football and around £100k-per-week to join Newcastle from Burnley.  

Quite how those reported demands would go down on Tyneside remain to be seen. Newcastle have seemingly held a long-standing interest in him but dropping Nick Pope all while paying the England U21 international in line with their top earners would be a huge decision.

If Brighton ramp up their interest, however, it could all be moot anyway.