Manchester City manager Josep Guardiola has issued a defiant warning to Tottenham Hotspur and other suitors, insisting goalkeeper James Trafford will “absolutely” remain at the Etihad Stadium beyond the January transfer window.
Speculation over the 23-year-old’s departure has intensified in recent weeks, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly eyeing Trafford as a player who could solve their goalkeeping crisis.
Spurs’ current number one Guglielmo Vicario has come under increasing scrutiny after a series of high-profile errors, with rumors emerging that Thomas Frank’s side could make a move for City’s backup shot-stopper in mid-season.
But despite Trafford’s struggles in the minutes since his £27m return to Manchester City in the summer, Guardiola was quick to quash talk of him leaving.
Pep Guardiola says James Trafford is not for sale in January
Ahead of Manchester City’s League Cup quarter-final clash with Brentford, in which Trafford is expected to start, Guardiola was clear about the goalkeeper’s immediate future.
Asked if Trafford could leave in the next period, Guardiola told reporters (via ESPN): “James Trafford will stay in January. He will be with us this season, absolutely.”
“He’s a great keeper. Unfortunately for him, Gianluigi is his first choice keeper, but he’s a great keeper. We know that the keeper’s position is very special and you can change it in one game, throughout the year.”
Vicario has been in a slump at Tottenham this season.
Guglielmo Vicario’s life in north London has been complicated since joining Tottenham from Empoli in 2023.
The imposing Italian produced an outstanding moment, showing sharp shot-stopping and incredible leadership qualities.
Last season in particular, he played a key role in Spurs’ 2024/25 Europa League campaign, contributing significantly to their success on the continent.
But Vicario’s performances this season have been overshadowed by a series of costly, high-profile mistakes.
Tottenham insider Paul O’Keeffe also said the club are now starting to consider a goalkeeper.
