Newcastle already told about ‘incredible’ ability of £40M star – personal terms ‘agreed’

James Trafford continues to emerge as one of Newcastle United’s primary transfer pursuits this summer, a target that has hovered on the club’s radar for over a year.

While he remains under contract at Burnley, the 22-year-old goalkeeper has once again become a central figure in Newcastle’s recruitment plans.

Discussions between Trafford and the Magpies appear to be progressing smoothly, with reputable transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealing that personal terms have already been agreed.

However, the two clubs remain locked in negotiations over the final transfer fee, with Burnley valuing their goalkeeper at £40 million.

Newcastle’s initial offer of £25 million was swiftly turned down, signaling that a deal will only materialize if they are prepared to increase their bid significantly.

Even though bolstering the goalkeeping position isn’t considered Newcastle’s topmost priority this transfer window, there’s considerable enthusiasm among supporters about the potential acquisition of Trafford.

With his age and talent, many believe he could become the club’s long-term solution between the posts. At just 22, Trafford still has ample room to grow, but his performances have already hinted at a ceiling far higher than most players his age.

While his first season in the Premier League was far from flawless, with Burnley conceding 62 goals in 28 appearances under Vincent Kompany, that experience has seemingly hardened the young goalkeeper.

His struggles were real—he eventually lost his place to Arijanet Muric—but they’ve also served as important stepping stones in his development.

Under Scott Parker’s leadership last season, both Burnley and Trafford made a stunning comeback in the Championship. Not only did the club secure an immediate return to the Premier League, but they did so with a defensive record that stood out in every sense.

Conceding just 16 goals throughout the entire campaign, Burnley dominated the division defensively, and Trafford was at the heart of that success. In 45 appearances, he kept an astonishing 29 clean sheets and never allowed more than one goal in a single match.

His consistency and calm presence between the sticks became defining elements of Burnley’s promotion campaign, and those performances only elevated his stock in the transfer market.

Scott Parker didn’t hold back when speaking about the young goalkeeper’s growth. Reflecting on the dramatic turnaround, Parker told the Burnley Express that he witnessed a young boy evolve into a man, adding that Trafford’s quality was “undeniable” and labeling him as “world class.”

The former Fulham and Bournemouth boss even predicted a future for Trafford with the England national team, describing his impact as nothing short of “incredible.”

If Trafford does complete his anticipated move to St James’ Park, he’ll enter an environment of high competition. Nick Pope currently holds the number one shirt under Eddie Howe, though his own season was disrupted by injury.

Pope temporarily lost his place to Martin Dubravka but regained his starting role by season’s end. With Dubravka possibly on his way out should Trafford arrive, the main competition will likely be between the new signing and Pope himself.

Interestingly, Pope’s contract has just 12 months remaining, and he has recently been linked with a move to Leeds United.

That uncertainty could open the door for Trafford to claim the top spot sooner than expected. Regardless, any incoming transfer would signal a passing of the torch or, at the very least, a fierce internal battle for the number one jersey.

Newcastle’s pursuit of Trafford is more than just about adding depth; it’s a long-term investment in a player who, despite early setbacks, has displayed extraordinary potential and resilience. Should the two clubs agree on the fee, this could prove to be one of the smartest moves of the summer window.