Burnley Star Set for Top-Flight Football Next Season
Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford remains confident that he will be playing Premier League football next season, whether with the Clarets or elsewhere.
The 22-year-old shot-stopper has been a key figure in Burnley’s promotion push, keeping an impressive 26 clean sheets in 37 matches and conceding just 11 goals in the Championship campaign so far.
Trafford’s performances have kept Scott Parker’s side in contention for automatic promotion, with Burnley sitting third in the table, just two points behind Leeds United and Sheffield United.
With only eight games left, the race for the top flight is expected to go down to the wire.
Newcastle United Ready to Renew Interest in Trafford
Even if Burnley fails to secure promotion, Trafford’s Premier League future looks likely. Newcastle United has been closely monitoring his progress after having a £16 million bid rejected last summer.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, a "verbal pact" between Trafford and Newcastle remains valid, meaning a deal could be revisited at the end of the season.
With
Nick Pope turning 33 and Martin Dubravka now 36, Newcastle is actively searching for a long-term solution in goal, and Trafford has emerged as their number one target.
England’s Future No.1?
A former Manchester City academy graduate, Trafford played a crucial role in England’s Under-21 European Championship victory and has since been called up to the senior squad.
While he is yet to make his senior debut, he has been named on the bench ahead of Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale in recent international fixtures.
Burnley boss Scott Parker believes Trafford has the potential to become England’s first-choice goalkeeper, stating:
"I think in terms of what you see in him, this is a boy with absolutely humongous potential. I don't think there's a better goalkeeper in and around this division when it comes to keeping the ball out of the net."
What’s Next for Trafford?
With Newcastle expected to make another move this summer, Trafford could be on his way to St James’ Park as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his squad. Whether he helps Burnley secure automatic promotion or makes a switch to the Premier League through a transfer, one thing is certain—James Trafford believes he belongs at the very top.
