James Trafford's return to Manchester City has not gone to plan. The goalkeeper could be set to already depart the Etihad Stadium in the summer.
Trafford came through the ranks at City and was loaned out to Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers before he joined Burnley permanently.
The keeper was a great keeper for the Clarets, particularly in the Championship last season, as Scott Parker's side was promoted. Trafford played 45 games in the division that campaign, conceded just 16 goals, and kept 29 clean sheets.
Trafford's form in the second tier last season led to a transfer back to City. He played in City's opening three Premier League games, but was criticized for a couple of errors. Gianluigi Donnarumma then joined the club from Paris Saint-Germain, and Trafford has been on the bench in the league since.
He has featured in the Champions League since, but only for the Bayer Leverkusen game, which City lost. Trafford has still been a very good cup keeper. He played in all the rounds of their victorious EFL Cup triumph, where they defeated Arsenal in the final. Trafford has also played in every round of the FA Cup and will be expected to start in the final against Chelsea on May 16.
Thomas Tuchel is still clearly a big admirer of Trafford, who he gave a debut to in England's 1-1 draw with Uruguay in the recent international break. The keeper will be expected to go to the World Cup, but probably as a backup to Jordan Pickford.
Where could James Trafford go this summer?
It could be an eventful summer for Trafford, going to a major tournament and a possible transfer. If he wants to be more than just a cup keeper, then he needs to leave City.
Trafford has been linked with multiple Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Brighton & Hove Albion, Leeds United, and Tottenham Hotspur. There have even been reports that he would be willing to join Spurs even if they are in the Championship next season.
Juventus is also reportedly interested in Trafford, which would be a dream for any goalkeeper to join a club that Gianluigi Buffon served for so many years. Trafford, however, must ensure that he will be the first choice at his next club. Villa needs a long-term replacement for Emiliano Martinez. Whilst at Newcastle, he could have a good chance of starting ahead of Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope.
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