Who is James Trafford? Meet the record-breaking goalkeeper close to Newcastle United transfer

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James Trafford is a highly-rated goalkeeper who Newcastle United are looking to sign in the summer transfer window.

It’s been a slow start to the summer transfer window for Newcastle United as Antonio Cordero is the only new signing after his arrival on a free from Malaga was confirmed.

Eddie Howe is hoping to significantly improve his squad depth ahead of the gruelling extra burden of Champions League football but it hasn’t been happy hunting for Newcastle so far.

Matheus Cunha has joined Manchester United and Bryan Mbeumo could follow him as the Magpies return to the drawing board for attacking reinforcements.

However, Burnley’s James Trafford has been their No.1 goalkeeper target and they’re looking increasingly likely to win the race.

Here’s all you need to know about him.

Who is James Trafford?

James Trafford is a professional goalkeeper who plays for Burnley and made waves during the 2024-25 season.

Trafford began his career at Carlisle United but was soon spotted by Manchester City. After joining the Blues’ youth ranks, Trafford’s raw potential was moulded to the club’s requirements for a goalkeeper.

Modelled after Ederson, Trafford was trained to be as good with the ball at his feet as he is at stopping it from going in. That’s made him the modern goalkeeper Newcastle want today.

Trafford’s breakthrough came during a highly successful 18-month loan spell at Bolton Wanderers in League One. Despite his tender years, Trafford shone between the sticks and helped the Whites win the EFL Trophy and reach the Play-offs.

Trafford also won the U21 Euros with England in 2023, with his remarkable double save from a penalty in the 98th minute securing the trophy.

After Bolton failed to earn promotion, Burnley bought him for a sizeable £15m upon their return to the Premier League. Trafford struggled in the top flight with less time on the ball, as Burnley were battered right back down again.

However, he bounced back with an incredible campaign and is now in Newcastle’s sights.

James Trafford to Newcastle United transfer news

Trafford first emerged as a possible target for Newcastle in May 2024, and the speculation has only gathered pace in the year since.

Howe wants a goalkeeper who is better than Nick Pope in possession and Trafford is the perfect candidate.

After months of rumours, Fabrizio Romano revealed in June that talks between Newcastle and Burnley were finally underway.

Trafford has reportedly agreed to join Newcastle and Burnley are seemingly closing in on Max Weiss, from Karlsruher SC, as a replacement.

A price still needs to be settled on, and fees as high as £40m have been touted.

Trafford’s friendship with Newcastle man Joe White is another thing going the Toon’s way.

James Trafford age

Trafford was born on October 10, 2002, in Cockermouth, England. As of June 2025, he is 22 years old.

James Trafford height

Trafford stands at a towering 6’6″ tall.

James Trafford salary

According to Salary Sport, Trafford earns £40,000 a week at Burnley, which works out at just over £2m a year.

If true, Newcastle will be able to offer him a significant pay rise without breaking the bank.

James Trafford stats

Trafford’s career stats so far.

James Trafford trophies

Trafford has already won several trophies in his young career.

• U18 Premier League, Manchester City – 2019-20
• FA Youth Cup, Manchester City – 2019-20
• U21 Premier League, Manchester City – 2020-21
• EFL Trophy, Bolton Wanderers – 2022-23
• U21 Euros, England – 2023

James Trafford’s Championship goal record

Trafford enjoyed a sensational 2024-25 Championship season in which he helped Burnley return to the Premier League with 100 points, though they missed out on the title to Leeds United on goal difference.

The goalkeeper finished the campaign with 29 clean sheets, the joint highest in the history of English football. He also ensured Burnley only conceded a remarkable 16 goals, the lowest in the history of an EFL season.

James Trafford Instagram and X/Twitter account

Trafford has an official Instagram account with 154k followers @jamestrafford.

He also has an official X, formerly Twitter, account @jamestrafford6.