Newcastle United have reportedly received a major boost in their pursuit of Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, with negotiations between the two clubs now back underway. The Magpies had hoped to secure the 22-year-old’s services last summer, but Trafford ultimately stayed at Burnley and played a key role in their promotion, registering a remarkable 29 clean sheets in 45 Championship matches while conceding just 16 goals.
Eddie Howe and his team have continued to monitor Trafford’s progress, and with Burnley now appearing to line up a replacement, a transfer could be imminent. According to Fabrizio Romano, discussions have resumed as both clubs work toward finalizing a deal.
Burnley, meanwhile, are close to signing Karlsruher SC’s Max Weiss as a potential successor. Sky Sport Germany reports that the 21-year-old goalkeeper is set to join the Clarets for around £4.3 million and will sign a four-year deal, pending a medical. Although Weiss may not immediately step in as Burnley’s first-choice keeper, his arrival signals the club’s readiness to move on from Trafford.
This development clears the path for Newcastle to finalize Trafford’s transfer, which could shake up their goalkeeping hierarchy. Nick Pope has been the team’s primary option over the past three years, but recent mistakes have raised questions about his long-term reliability. While Martin Dubravka has delivered solid performances, particularly in cup competitions, there are doubts about his standing as a first-choice option. Other goalkeepers currently in the squad include John Ruddy and Odysseas Vlachodimos.
Trafford, widely regarded as one of England’s top young goalkeeping talents, has drawn praise for his performances with the England U21s and is seen by some as a future successor to Jordan Pickford. He has openly expressed his ambition to reach the highest level of English football.
Speaking on the Fozcast podcast, Trafford shared:
“That’s where I’ve always been aiming for the top of the Premier League. Everyone wants to play there. You have to keep playing games, improving, and be ready for when the opportunity comes.”
If the deal goes through, Trafford would be a major addition to Newcastle’s squad, bringing both immediate quality and long-term potential to their goalkeeping ranks.
