James Trafford’s Man City future: Newcastle interest, true feelings, World Cup twist

Need to know

Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford is facing an uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium this summer

Everything you need to know about James Trafford’s future at Manchester City:

1. Trafford is facing an uncertain future at City despite only re-signing for the club last summer. The Blues spent £27m to sign their academy graduate from Burnley.
2. City beat Newcastle to Trafford’s signature and it was expected the 23-year-old would be the Blues’ first choice for the forthcoming campaign.
3. However, shortly before the summer transfer window closed, City made the landmark signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG. The Italian shot stopper cost £26m and went straight into the starting line-up.
4. Trafford was forced to watch on from the bench as Donnarumma played the vast majority of Premier League and Champions League matches. Meanwhile, the England international played in the FA and Carabao Cups.
5. After the Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal where Trafford starred, he admitted it had been a difficult season back at City.
6. “I make no illusions,” Trafford told Sky Sports at Wembley Stadium. “It hasn’t been easy at all. It’s been really, really tough at times. But I’ve got an incredible set of people around me and the lads are brilliant. The coaches are brilliant.” Read more here.
7. Now the season has ended, speculation surrounding Trafford has returned.
8. Reports this week have claimed Newcastle have reignited their interest in Trafford this summer.
9. However, any deal is unlikely to be agreed any time soon. Trafford is currently with the England squad at the World Cup and the suggestion is that he will not entertain any talks on his future until after the tournament.