James Trafford has transferred from Burnley to Manchester City in a deal that the newly-promoted Premier League club claims sets a record for a British goalkeeper.
The transfer will cost City £27 million, with the total value of the deal climbing to £31 million.
When Trafford moved to Burnley in 2023, City secured a matching clause as part of the agreement.
Last week, Newcastle reached a £31 million agreement with Burnley, which City matched. However, due to a sell-on clause included in the contract, City’s actual payout amounts to £27 million.
The previous record for a British goalkeeper was held by Jordan Pickford, who transferred from Sunderland to Everton for £30 million.
Trafford has signed a five-year contract, with the option to extend for another year, and will compete with Ederson for the starting goalkeeper position under Pep Guardiola. Although Stefan Ortega, who started 13 Premier League matches last season, is expected to leave, no agreement is imminent.
The young England U21 goalkeeper expressed his happiness about returning to Manchester City, stating, “Rejoining City is such a special and proud moment for me and my family. This is my home, and I am excited to learn and improve within this fantastic club.” He added that he looks forward to making his debut for the City fans.
Trafford began his career in City’s academy in 2015, but after loans at Accrington and Bolton, he sought regular first-team action at Burnley. He noted, “Going to Burnley was the right step for me, and I am happy to have achieved my goal of returning here.”
Trafford, now wearing the number one shirt, becomes City’s sixth signing of the summer, joining players like Rayan Ait-Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders. City’s sporting director praised Trafford for his potential and anticipated that his time under Pep and the coaching staff will foster his development.
