Leeds United are close to agreeing a deal to sign James Trafford from Manchester City in a move worth £40 million plus bonuses.
It is understood that the transfer is nearing completion and will mark a club-record signing for Leeds.
Trafford is expected to become Leeds’ third signing of the window, following the arrivals of Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo and Harry Wilson, who joined as a free agent after leaving Fulham.
According to The Athletic, Leeds have tracked Trafford since 2024 and previously attempted to sign him last summer before he rejoined Manchester City from Burnley. The 23-year-old had already considered a move to Elland Road back then, making this transfer a long-anticipated move.
Goalkeeper Situation at Leeds
Leeds are actively reinforcing their goalkeeping department after Karl Darlow left on a free transfer to Manchester United.
Current options include Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns, but Trafford is expected to arrive as the new first-choice goalkeeper.
Career Journey
After graduating from Manchester City’s academy, Trafford gained experience through loan spells at Accrington Stanley and Bolton Wanderers before joining Burnley permanently in 2023.
He impressed with 73 appearances and a Championship-record 30 clean sheets in the 2024–25 season during his spell at Burnley, earning a return move to Manchester City in the 2025/2026 season.
At City, Trafford expected to become first choice but was instead second to Gianluigi Donnarumma following the Italian’s arrival.He made 17 appearances in the 2025–26 season, playing key roles in cup competitions as Manchester City lifted both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
Trafford made his senior debut for England national team in March and earned two caps. He was also included in Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the World Cup but did not feature during the tournament.
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