Aston Villa and Newcastle United have emerged as the frontrunners for Leeds United target James Trafford. Both clubs want to secure the Manchester City keeper when the summer window opens. According to the Transfer Insider podcast, reporter Pete O’Rourke says Leeds United are also firmly in the mix. The Whites are serious about the talented shot-stopper.

Premier League Transfer Update: The Race for James Trafford

O’Rourke mentioned the club will look up their options as the window nears. A lot depends on whether they can stay in the Premier League for another year. City reportedly want more than £30 million for their academy product. That is a decent jump from the £27 million they paid to bring him back from Burnley.

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Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, he explained: “Leeds will be among a number of Premier League clubs who’ll be looking at Trafford’s situation come the summer window.

“Aston Villa are looking at him, Newcastle have held a long-term interest in Trafford as well and came close to signing him before he ended up going back to Manchester City.

“If Leeds were to stay up, it might be an area that they might look to strengthen in. (There is) lots of water to go under the bridge before anything happens on that front, but I’m sure there’ll be a lot of clubs who’ll be looking at Trafford’s situation.

“A lot will depend on what the player himself wants to do, if he wants to move away in search of regular first-team football come next summer.” 

Should Leeds United press for him?

Things are shifting quickly at Elland Road. It feels like a real turning point for their keepers. Illan Meslier looks set to move on after a long stint. At the same time, summer signing Lucas Perri hasn’t done enough to win over Daniel Farke. The Brazilian had a lot of hype behind him. However, Karl Darlow recently snatched the starting spot after Perri struggled for consistency in the top flight.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 14: James Trafford of Manchester City celebrates as Alfie Dorrington of Salford City (not pictured) scores an own goal, giving Manchester City their first goal during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match between Manchester City and Salford City at Etihad Stadium on February 14, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Annabel Lee-Ellis/Getty Images)

James Trafford is only 23. He is at a bit of a crossroads despite his massive potential. He is still a regular in Thomas Tuchel’s England setup. While Trafford cost Manchester City a significant fee to bring back, he is currently stuck on the bench. Naturally, he is hungry for a starting role elsewhere.

Leeds United need to go all-in for Trafford. He has exactly the kind of presence and footwork you need for a modern Premier League side. Some fans might think £30 million is a bit much for a team just trying to keep their head above water. Even so, Trafford could lead the backline for a decade. He has a much higher potential than Perri or Darlow. Plus, his homegrown status makes him even more valuable for the squad registration quota.

The summer window is shaping up to be a real scrap. Aston Villa might have the advantage if they can offer Champions League football. But Leeds United could have a secret weapon: Trafford is close with players like Wilfried Gnonto. If they promise him the number one shirt, that friendship could tip the scales. Don’t expect a loan here, City will likely hold out for a permanent sale to bank a big profit on their elite young asset.