Report: ‘World class’ star tells Newcastle he won’t join them this summer unless he starts
The pursuit of James Trafford has resurfaced as a pressing concern for Newcastle United’s sporting director Paul Mitchell, with the Burnley goalkeeper making audacious contract demands that could test the Magpies’ wage structure.
The 22-year-old shot-stopper, fresh from an exceptional Championship campaign that saw him concede just 16 goals while posting the division’s best save percentage, has set clear terms for any potential move to St James’ Park.
Trafford’s representatives have reportedly informed Newcastle that their client will only consider the switch under two non-negotiable conditions: guaranteed first-team status and a staggering £100,000 weekly wage.
These demands would immediately elevate the England international to the upper echelon of Newcastle’s earners, placing him alongside established stars like Sandro Tonali and Kieran Trippier in the payroll hierarchy.
| Newcastle’s Current Wage Structure | |
|———————————-|-|
| Bruno Guimaraes | £160k/week |
| Joelinton | £150k/week |
| Anthony Gordon | £150k/week |
| Sandro Tonali | £120k/week |
| Kieran Trippier | £120k/week |
| Alexander Isak | £120k/week |
The young goalkeeper’s self-proclaimed “world class” status finds some justification in his performances last season, where his commanding presence between the posts played a crucial role in Burnley’s immediate return to the Premier League under Scott Parker.
His inclusion in recent England squads despite playing in the second tier further underscores his burgeoning reputation.
However, Newcastle face a complex decision. Meeting Trafford’s demands would represent a significant gamble on a relatively unproven Premier League goalkeeper, while potentially disrupting the club’s carefully managed wage structure.
The Magpies currently boast Nick Pope as their established number one, with Martin Dúbravka providing experienced cover – making Trafford’s starting berth request particularly problematic.
Manchester United’s reported interest complicates matters further, with the Red Devils potentially willing to meet both the transfer fee and wage expectations that Trafford commands.
For Newcastle, the dilemma pits long-term potential against immediate financial prudence, as they weigh whether to invest heavily in a player who could become England’s first-choice goalkeeper for years to come.
Mitchell must now determine whether Trafford’s potential justifies overhauling Newcastle’s goalkeeping department and wage scale.
With Financial Fair Play considerations ever-present, this transfer saga may well define how ambitious the new ownership group intends to be in the summer market.
One thing remains clear – securing Trafford’s signature would send a powerful statement about Newcastle’s aspirations, but at a price that could reshape their entire compensation framework.