Report: £40m clause could see former player return to Man City | OneFootball

Man City Eye Trafford Return Amid Newcastle Frustration

Trafford Back on City’s Radar

Manchester City have entered preliminary talks to re-sign former academy goalkeeper James Trafford in a deal that could cost £40million, according to talkSPORT. The 22-year-old currently plays for Burnley, having joined the Clarets from City in 2023 for an initial £19million fee plus add-ons.

Despite Trafford never making a senior appearance during his time at the Etihad, the eight-time Premier League champions inserted a £40million buy-back clause in his Burnley contract. Now, with Newcastle pushing hard for his signature this summer, City appear poised to activate it — potentially hijacking another Magpies deal.

Trafford has long been admired by Newcastle, with Eddie Howe reportedly submitting two failed bids for the player last year despite having already agreed personal terms. The Magpies’ interest has remained strong, but City’s re-entry into the conversation puts the move in jeopardy once again.

Newcastle’s Frustrating Summer Window

This potential U-turn adds to what’s becoming a frustrating transfer window for Newcastle. Already this summer, the club has missed out on key targets including Dean Huijsen, Joao Pedro and Bryan Mbuemo. Trafford now looks set to join that list, despite the club’s extensive groundwork on a deal.

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“Howe could lose out on yet another target in this transfer window,” talkSPORT reports, echoing the frustrations of Newcastle supporters watching their club struggle to land decisive signings.

Should City trigger Trafford’s clause, he would return to Manchester only two years after leaving. Having spent six years in City’s academy and a further two on various loan spells, Trafford has built his reputation in the Football League — most notably with Bolton Wanderers — before becoming Burnley’s No.1.

City’s Goalkeeping Shake-Up?

There’s more than just nostalgia in City’s interest. With Ederson’s injury issues last season and Stefan Ortega entering potential exit territory, Guardiola could be planning a refresh between the sticks. talkSPORT confirms Burnley may consider Ortega as a replacement if Trafford leaves, though no formal offer has yet been made.

“Ortega is an option for Burnley if they need to replace Trafford,” the report states — a domino that may well fall depending on City’s next move.

Trafford’s Second Chance at City

While Trafford never made a senior appearance for City, a return would be symbolic — and potentially significant. With more first-team experience under his belt and having developed into an England Under-21 international, Trafford could finally get his shot under Pep Guardiola.

“So, he could finally get to wear the shirt for Guardiola’s men should they trigger the £40m clause in his contract,” talkSPORT notes, hinting at a potential redemption arc in Manchester.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester City fan’s perspective, the idea of bringing James Trafford back makes both strategic and sentimental sense. At just 22, Trafford has grown significantly since leaving the Etihad and now represents a modern, confident keeper who could challenge for a long-term role under Guardiola. His impressive spells with Bolton and Burnley have showcased his shot-stopping ability and command of the area — traits City fans have seen underdeveloped in their backup options in recent seasons.

With Stefan Ortega potentially on Burnley’s radar, and Ederson facing a few uncertain months due to past injuries, Trafford could be a timely addition. “He knows the club, he knows the expectations, and he’s ready for the step up,” many fans would argue. More than just a squad player, Trafford represents the homegrown talent City have been accused of overlooking.

Moreover, the buy-back clause being activated shows the club’s smart long-term planning — selling a promising player with development space, then buying him back if he flourishes. And £40m in today’s market for a young English keeper of Trafford’s pedigree? That’s a savvy investment.

If Guardiola believes in Trafford, City supporters will too — and a Premier League debut in sky blue might finally be around the corner.