James Trafford move gathers pace as Newcastle revive long-term transfer plan

Newcastle United have reportedly moved to the front of the queue to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford, with Eddie Howe's side looking to strengthen between the posts despite ongoing uncertainty surrounding several senior players.

The Magpies continue to battle speculation over the futures of Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães, but attention is also turning towards potential arrivals as preparations for the new Premier League season continue.

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are now leading the race to sign Trafford, who is expected to leave Manchester City in search of regular first-team football.

The 23-year-old only returned to the Etihad Stadium last summer after Manchester City activated their matching rights clause following his spell at Burnley.

However, his hopes of becoming Pep Guardiola's first-choice goalkeeper were quickly disrupted after City's decision to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma.

As a result, Trafford is now looking for a club where he will be guaranteed the number one shirt.

Newcastle are believed to be in the strongest position to offer that opportunity, although Aston Villa continue to monitor the situation.

This is not the first time Newcastle have attempted to sign Trafford.

The Magpies came close to completing a deal before Manchester City exercised their buy-back option, forcing Newcastle to abandon their pursuit.

Having maintained their admiration for the England international over the past year, the club are now preparing another attempt while Trafford assesses his future following the World Cup.

The club's persistence is unsurprising. Trafford has long been viewed as one of England's most promising young goalkeepers, and his age, distribution and composure fit the profile Newcastle have consistently targeted as they build for the long term.

However, any agreement is still likely to depend on Trafford receiving assurances over regular playing time, which appears to be his priority after a frustrating campaign at Manchester City.

While transfer speculation surrounding Tonali and Guimarães continues to dominate headlines, Newcastle remain focused on strengthening key areas of the squad.

The club have already completed the signing of goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen from Stade de Reims, although the Frenchman is expected to develop as a backup option rather than immediately challenge for the starting role.

Trafford is currently representing England at the World Cup and recently admitted he remains open-minded about his future.

"You never know, whether I move, whether I don't move, I do what's right for me and my career.

"It's obviously been very challenging the past season, but looking back, I've learned so much, I've developed so much."

Those comments have only fuelled speculation that a move away from Manchester City could materialise once his international commitments come to an end.

Newcastle are expected to continue discussions over a deal while Trafford remains focused on England's World Cup campaign. Any formal negotiations are likely to accelerate once the tournament concludes.

With Aston Villa also monitoring the goalkeeper and Manchester City expected to listen to suitable offers, Trafford's future could become one of the Premier League's most closely watched goalkeeper stories later this summer.

Would James Trafford be the long-term answer in goal for Newcastle, or should Eddie Howe target a more experienced goalkeeper this summer?