Newcastle United have a lot of work to do in this summer transfer window. Of course, most of the focus has been on the midfield department lately. At the end of the day, Sandro Tonali has left for Tottenham Hotspur and Bruno Guimaraes has agreed personal terms with Arsenal. That leaves the Magpies is a worrying position.
That was made worse by the fact that a move for Johan Manzambi had been agreed with SC Freiburg but the player appears to have chosen Aston Villa instead. So, the midfield remains an area of need.
But that does not mean that Newcastle United can afford to overlook other positions on the pitch. One of them is the one between the posts.
Ewen Jaouen has been signed this summer. But coming from Ligue 2, being asked to be the starter in the Premier League might be too big a jump for the 20-year-old. A cover role for the time being would be more suited. On the other hand, there is speculation that Nick Pope could be on his way out. So, who will be the starting goalkeeper for Newcastle United next season?
Who will be Newcastle United’s next number one?
James Trafford is someone who has been linked with Newcastle United on multiple occasions in the past. And the Magpies remain involved in the race to sign him.
According to Newcastle World, Trafford has been Newcastle United’s top goalkeeper target since 2024. The Manchester City goalkeeper has previously agreed to join the club and would be open to leaving the Etihad Stadium this summer.
So, Newcastle United have been able to find an agreement with Trafford in the past. And they will be looking to do the same this summer as well.
It remains to be seen what kind of options are available to Trafford other than Newcastle United. But the Magpies have been considered one of the frontrunners, if he does indeed leave Man City.
James Trafford would be the dream signing for Newcastle United
Trafford has proven himself in English football already. And even last season, even though he barely played for Manchester City, he was able to showcase his qualities when given a chance.
Trafford was the cover option to Gianluigi Donnarumma all season. But the Englishman was handed the first-team gloves in domestic cup competitions. Incidentally, Man City won both competitions.
Someone like Trafford would be a dream signing for Newcastle United. Still just 23 years of age, he could solve the problem between the posts for the next decade.
There has to be a recognition though that other clubs will probably be keeping a close eye on his situation as well. So, the Magpies might need to move quickly to get a deal done.
