James Trafford turned down Newcastle United because he has more chances of becoming England first-choice at Manchester City | OneFootball

English goalkeeper James Trafford has explained that he turned down a summer move to Newcastle United because he has more chances of realising his potential at Manchester City.

Newcastle had a bid accepted for the 22-year-old earlier this summer, and manager Eddie Howe thought he was going to join the club after making several attempts to sign him from Burnley.

However, Man City activated a clause they inserted in the deal when Trafford joined the Clarets in 2023.

Burnley were required to inform the Etihad Stadium club of any accepted bids for the goalie and allowed them to match the bid, which scuppered Newcastle’s hopes of signing him.

Trafford is now backing himself to become the long-term first-choice at his new club and for the national team, revealing he opted against moving to Newcastle to achieve his dream with England.

“There was obviously a decision to make,” Trafford said. “City were the best option for my career and I believe in myself.

“I believed this was the right place for me as a goalkeeper. I wasn’t surprised when (City came in for him), but I don’t think too far ahead. When they did, I thought, ‘okay, sound.’ ”

Newcastle had to settle for a loan deal for Southampton goalie Aaron Ramsdale, and he will now look to establish himself as first-choice ahead of Nick Pope.

Martin Dubravka has left for Burnley after seven seasons with Newcastle, but Howe still has two solid options to choose from.

Newcastle are also set to announce the signing of Germany international centre-back Malick Thiaw from AC Milan.