Newcastle United were heavily linked with James Trafford at the start of the season, but Manchester City ultimately signed him.
The 23-year-old has struggled to earn regular minutes at Manchester City, but has opened up about his situation at the Premier League club.
Trafford is trying to make the most of the opportunities that come his way, but revealed he is not very happy with his role as a player in the team. He wants to play more often and it remains to be seen whether Newcastle are ready to make a move for him.
He said (h/t Shields Gazette): “Obviously there were ups and downs throughout the season because I wasn’t playing as much and obviously decisions had to be made in the summer.
“Even relating to this season is one of those things that I’ve found difficult because I haven’t played as much as I would have liked to have played the game.
“For me, it’s all just about enjoying playing and trying my best to win. I’m playing well, it’s really fun. It feels great, I’m really enjoying playing, and I try to really enjoy it whenever I play.”
According to a report in the Shields Gazette, the Shields remain interested in signing the 23-year-old goalkeeper in the summer. They need a quality long-term replacement for Nick Pope and Trafford could be an exceptional signing. He was outstanding in the Championship for Burnley last season and has the quality to play regularly at a high level in the Premier League.
A move to Newcastle could be ideal for him. Regular football will bring out the best in players and help them cement their place in the England national team.
It will be interesting to see whether Manchester City intend to allow him to leave in the summer. With a world-class goalkeeper in Gianluigi Donnarumma, Trafford will likely struggle to find regular players again next season. There is no point in him sitting on the bench at Manchester City and he should aim for a move in the summer.
If Newcastle can offer him guaranteed game time, it could be the ideal move for him. They have quality players and an ambitious project. Trafford could be aiming for a trophy with them.
