Leeds open talks with Man City over England international

Football
23 Jul 2026 • 11:52 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Leeds open talks with Man City over England international

Leeds United are in talks to sign James Trafford from Manchester City.

The England goalkeeper, who only returned to the Etihad Stadium last summer, could be on the move again.

Trafford has been a long-term target for Newcastle, who bid for him last summer, and was also of interest to Aston Villa but Leeds are now favourites to sign the 23-year-old.

Karl Darlow, who finished last season as Leeds’ first-choice goalkeeper, has left Elland Road to join Manchester United on a free transfer while Illan Meslier, who has signed for Arsenal, has also moved on, leaving manager Daniel Farke looking to buy. Lucas Perri was bought by Leeds last summer, but lost his place during the season.

Trafford, who came through City’s academy, was bought back last summer after City activated their matching rights clause when Newcastle had made an offer for him.

But Trafford was surprised when City then bought Gianluigi Donnarumma, with the Italy international becoming the regular in the Premier League and the Champions League.

Trafford only made four Premier League appearances for City, though he did start the Carabao Cup and FA Cup finals to give him two medals to show for his second spell at City.

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