Newcastle United have already fallen short on one occasion this summer. It had looked like a move for Victor Munoz was as good as done, as the replacement for the outgoing Anthony Gordon, only for Liverpool to swoop in late and sign the player themselves. When the Reds come calling, it is probably difficult to turn down.
Naturally, some fans are worried that things have not progressed faster in the Johan Manzambi deal. The better he performs at the World Cup, the higher the chances that other clubs will make a move for him as well. Perhaps that is a possible reason why this deal is not moving more quickly.
Anyways, there are also some players who have already been at top clubs. And they might prefer a move to Newcastle United, in search of playing time.
£40m player open to joining Newcastle United after disappointing Manchester City stint
According to a report from The Northern Echo, James Trafford has accepted that he will have to leave Manchester City this summer to secure regular first-team football. He turned down the chance to join Newcastle United last summer but is believed to be receptive to the idea of heading to St James’ Park ahead of the start of next season if the financial elements of a deal can be successfully agreed.
Of course, other top clubs are expected to be interested in Trafford as well. Names like Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have been mentioned as potential landing spots.
Perhaps they still are. But the report will provide fans with hope that Newcastle United are very much in the mix and could even be preferred due to the playing time they can give him.
Why James Trafford might prefer Newcastle over other ‘top’ clubs
The issue with top clubs is that it is very easy to lose your place in the team. Just look at what happened with Trafford at Man City. He was brought in in a £40 million deal to be the starter but then the club ended up signing Gianluigi Donnarumma soon afterwards.
Unsurprisingly, Trafford found himself slipping down the pecking order immediately despite no fault of his own. Donnarumma is arguably the best goalkeeper in the world right now.
When given a chance, Trafford did impress. He was a starter in Man City’s two triumphs, winning the League Cup and FA Cup double.
But that does not mean he will move ahead of Donnarumma in the pecking order anytime soon. That simply is the situation there at Manchester City.
So, a move away has become necessary. If Newcastle United can sign him for a transfer fee in the region of £40 million, it would have to be considered a major coup.
Nick Pope is expected to leave this summer. On the other hand, Ewen Jaouen might not be ready to be starting for the Magpies just yet.
So, signing someone like Trafford makes all the sense in the world if you are Newcastle. But of course, everything will depend on the player and was he envisions for his future.
