Latest developments
- Newcastle United are set to sign James Trafford in the summer.
- The Magpies failed in their attempts to sign the Burnley star last summer.
- Manchester City have a buy-back clause for Trafford.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Trafford to join Newcastle
Newcastle United are set to sign James Trafford this summer irrespective of Burnley‘s fate in the Championship. Manchester City have a buy-back clause for their ex-goalkeeper but they are unlikely to provide any competition for his signature.
The story comes from the Daily Mail, which is not one of the most reliable sources in England.
Value (4/5): Final fee yet to be revealed
It remains unclear what Newcastle would pay to Burnley to sign their number one. However, last summer, they came close to signing him for £16m before the deal collapsed.
Expect the Magpies to seal the deal for a fee in a similar region, as Trafford has just two years left on his deal at Turf Moor.
Suitability (3.5/5): Well-rounded goalkeeper
The England U21 international has enjoyed a phenomenal season with Burnley, having earned plaudits for his ball-playing ability and shot-stopping.
Impressively, he will go into tonight's clash with Sheffield Wednesday having avoided conceding in over 1,000 minutes.
Upgrade? (4/5): Pope replacement
It's fair to assume Trafford isn't going to arrive at St. James' Park to be Nick Pope's understudy. He is likely to become Eddie Howe's number one, as Pope's injury issues and lack of technical ability has raised question marks over his long-term future with Newcastle.
Logic (4.5/5): All but done
Trafford agreed to join Newcastle last summer and has his heart set on a move at the end of the season, so there isn't much convincing left to do.
Whisper+ verdict: 19/25
Newcastle have been trying to sign him since last summer, and they've positioned themselves to seal the deal in the next few months.
