Man City have confirmed that goalkeeper James Trafford has left the club to sign for Leeds United on a permanent transfer. After just one additional season at the club after rejoining City last season, Trafford's lack of first team football has seen the England international look elsewhere.
While Trafford was superb in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup last season as City went on to lift both trophies for a domestic double, his lack of playing time in the Premier League had caused the goalkeeper huge frustration. He was signed as Man City's new number one, replacing Ederson between the sticks. That was, though, until Gianluigi Donnarumma became available and Trafford soon found himself on the bench.
Look, while I feel for Trafford, you just can't turn down Donnarumma. One of the best goalkeepers in the world, the Italian is comfortably, and rightly, City's first choice in goal.
However, as I said in my Keep, Sell, Loan guide, I would've loved James Trafford to stay at the club. I'm doubtful as to whether Gianluigi Donnarumma will stay at the club for years to come, especially after his agent reportedly made comments about his client returning to Italy in the near future.
Sending Trafford out on loan for a season, or even two, with a view to him replacing Donnarumma afterwards would've made perfect sense. To me, that is, but of course not for James. He understandably wants first team football and a settled home, at Leeds he'll get just that.
If James Trafford does well at Elland Road, he'll be in good standing to stake a claim as England's number one. I think he'll do just that.
So, what can Leeds United expect from their new goalkeeper? Firstly, an excellent all-round keeps. A top class shot stopper, good distribution skills and comfortable with the ball at his feet.
Secondly, they're getting a goalkeeper desperate to succeed. While Trafford played a big part in Man City's domestic cup wins last season, he wants regular Premier League football. He'll get that at Leeds.
Man City now need another number two. It's looking likely that that man will be Geronimo Rulli, who actually signed for the Blues in 2016 before moving to Real Sociedad without ever making a first team appearance the following year.
Marcus Bettinelli is solely a third choice goalkeeper. Enzo Maresca will be looking to tie up a deal with Rulli, or another number two option, as soon as possible.
What's next for Man City? The Blues face Atletico Madrid for their final game in their preseason tour of Asia on Sunday. They will then be returning to England to prepare for their Community Shield clash against Arsenal on August 16th.
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