Leeds United have taken a huge step towards solving their biggest squad concern after agreeing a deal with Manchester City for James Trafford. The 23-year-old is completing the final stages of his medical before signing a long-term contract at Elland Road. His arrival is expected to trigger another move inside the goalkeeping department, with Lucas Perri lined up for a loan switch to Torino. Daniel Farke has clearly identified Trafford as his first-choice goalkeeper rather than part of a rotation.
Leeds United have agreed a deal with Manchester City for James Trafford, a 23-year-old goalkeeper with international experience. The agreement could exceed €45 million, with an official announcement expected soon after the final paperwork is completed.
Why it matters for Leeds United
The signing of Trafford is a significant boost for Leeds United, who entered the summer with a problem that demanded an expensive answer. Illan Meslier departed for Arsenal on a free transfer, and Karl Darlow followed him out of the club by joining Manchester United. Suddenly, a Premier League side faced the prospect of starting the season without an established number one.
Trafford's arrival is expected to trigger another move inside the goalkeeping department, with Lucas Perri lined up for a loan switch to Torino. The 23-year-old has already completed the final stages of his medical and is set to sign a long-term contract at Elland Road.
Trafford has international experience, having formed part of England's squad that secured third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He has also played in the Premier League, making four starts for Manchester City last season. Despite limited opportunities, Trafford has shown his quality, producing 29 clean sheets and recording an outstanding 85.2% save percentage during a demanding Championship campaign with Burnley.
The price of €45 million may attract debate, but context matters. Trafford's path was blocked by one of Europe's elite goalkeepers, limiting opportunities rather than exposing weaknesses in his game. At 23, he already has international experience and homegrown value while offering years of development ahead.
If Leeds United establish themselves comfortably in the Premier League and Trafford pushes Jordan Pickford for England's number one shirt, the €45 million outlay could look far less dramatic than it does today.
Leeds United are currently 14th in the Premier League, 47 points behind leaders Arsenal, and have scored 49 goals this season, conceding 56. They are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, and the signing of Trafford is a significant step in that direction.
