Manchester City have already been one of the busiest clubs in this summer’s transfer window, spending more than €145m [$170m] as they look to vie for the Premier League and major European honours after a disappointing last season.
The club have moved early to reinforce key areas, bringing in goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, midfielders Sverre Nypan and Tijjani Reijnders and winger Rayan Cherki.
The eight-time Premier League champions have now shifted their attention to a familiar face, with James Trafford, a former City academy graduate who moved to Burnley in 2023, expected to rejoin the club.
The same was confirmed by leading transfer expert Fabrizio Romano:
“Manchester City agree deal to sign James Trafford as new goalkeeper, here we go!
Deal in place with Burnley under value of £40m buy back clause. Trafford said yes to Man City, as Pep Guardiola wanted him. ” He wrote on X.
?? EXCLUSIVE: Manchester City agree deal to sign James Trafford as new goalkeeper, here we go!
Deal in place with Burnley under value of £40m buy back clause. Trafford said yes to Man City as Pep Guardiola wanted him.
Newcastle are also informed about Trafford’s decision. pic.twitter.com/UG4X3V2lsZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 25, 2025
Trafford played 73 games for Burnley and built a reputation for his commanding presence and quick distribution, with his development clearly impressing City’s coaching staff, who now believe he is ready to return and compete at the highest level.
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This new signing, though, has raised deeper questions within City’s goalkeeping hierarchy.
Why Trafford’s arrival won’t spell the end for Ederson
There has been growing speculation around Ederson’s future this summer, especially after reports emerged linking him with Turkish club Galatasaray.
Although the Brazilian dismissed those rumors as “fake news,” his name has remained part of the transfer conversation throughout July.
According to the Independent, Manchester City are currently planning to keep Ederson at the club for at least one more season.
The club is aware his contract has just one year remaining but appears willing to take the risk of letting him walk for free if a new deal cannot be agreed.
So, it could be likely Trafford is not being signed as a replacement but rather to compete for the No. 1 shirt.
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