Leeds United completed a club-record deal to sign 23-year-old England goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City on Thursday evening.
The Whites agreed to pay a fee of around £45m, making Trafford the most expensive signing in the club’s history, and he has signed a contract that makes him the highest-paid player at Elland Road.
Daniel Farke wanted to bring in a new number 1 this summer as he didn’t believe Lucas Perri had it in him to be that guy after his underwhelming performances last season.
Leeds believe they have secured a goalkeeper who is a future England number 1 and will hopefully be the man between the sticks at Elland Road for years to come.
Read More: “I don’t really care“ – James Trafford fires back at critics in his first Leeds words
Manchester City chief reacts to losing James Trafford
The Premier League giants re-signed James Trafford from Burnley last summer, and he was expected to be the number one at the Etihad.
However, they signed Gianluigi Donnarumma, who became the first-choice, and while Trafford impressed in Manchester City’s FA Cup and EFL Cup wins, he was always on his way out this summer.
Manchester City sporting director Hugo Viana insisted that Trafford showed last season that he is a top goalkeeper and Leeds have signed a player of really high quality.
He highlighted the goalkeeper’s role in the club winning the two domestic cup competitions last season.
“James showed everyone last season that he’s a top goalkeeper”, Viana said on the club’s official website.
“He was a key player for us in both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup – two competitions we were successful in.
“He has many great assets, and he is a top professional. Leeds United are getting a ‘keeper of high quality.
“We wish James all the best with his career from here. He deserves every success.”
Big spending means Leeds United need more sales
Leeds United are expected to oversee several departures before the transfer window closes as they continue to reshape the squad and generate funds for further signings.
Lucas Perri is on the verge of joining Torino, while Sebastiaan Bornauw is another player the Whites would be willing to sell if a suitable offer is made.
Largie Ramazani also remains a leading candidate to leave, although Valencia are hoping Leeds will lower their asking price before stepping up their interest.
Wilfried Gnonto and Joel Piroe are among the club’s most valuable assets, and Leeds would consider offers for both if they match the club’s valuation.
Brenden Aaronson’s future is another situation to keep an eye on. With just a year remaining on his contract, Leeds must decide whether to tie him down to a new deal or risk losing him for a reduced fee in the future.
