Leeds United are in the market for a goalkeeper this summer and have been studying several targets ahead of making a concrete move.
Karl Darlow is expected to sign a new two-year contract with Leeds and stay at Elland Road, despite having an offer to join Manchester United on a free transfer.
However, Leeds still need a goalkeeper as the club are keen to move on Lucas Perri this summer, and want to bring in a new shot stopper to replace the Brazilian.
Leeds have been ramping up their interest in Parma’s Zion Suzuki. However, their dream target is James Trafford, and the race to sign him is set to get more complicated.
Newcastle United are in pole position to sign James Trafford
Leeds have serious interest in James Trafford, who is almost certain to leave Manchester City this summer after spending a season in Gianluigi Donnarumma’s shadow.
The England goalkeeper is Leeds’ dream target, and while they remain interested in him, the Whites are not the favourites to sign Trafford this summer.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle are in pole position to sign the Manchester City goalkeeper in the ongoing transfer window.
Newcastle have already signed one goalkeeper this summer, and want to bring in one more if they can sell Nick Pope this summer.
Trafford is a player the Magpies have been chasing since last year, and they are again pushing to sign him before the 2026/27 season.
Newcastle have been in contact with Trafford’s representatives since last year, and are the favourites to sign him in the ongoing transfer window.
A guaranteed starting role is likely to be one of Trafford’s key demands when deciding on his next club, following his experience at Manchester City last season.
Leeds have the money to spend on a top goalkeeper
Leeds have lined up a free transfer to sign Harry Wilson, and are in talks to sign Julian Brandt, who is also available as a free agent this summer.
Their moves on these couple of free agents will save them money on transfer fees and allow them to stretch their budget on a few key areas of the squad.
Leeds still need a striker and defender to replace Pascal Struijk, but Leeds can afford to spend big on a top goalkeeper in the ongoing summer window.
Their interest in Zion Suzuki suggests that they have the funds as Parma are unlikely to sell him less for less than £26m this summer.
Trafford is Leeds’ dream target and if they get a clear run at him, the club will cobble together the funds to sign the Manchester City goalkeeper.
