Burnley is usually one of the lower-tier Premier League teams that is just trying to stay in the top league of English football and avoid being relegated to the Championship. But, that doesn’t mean they don’t have promising young talent, amazing veteran squad members, and good vibes that keep the team in fighting spirit throughout the entirety of the lengthy PL campaign.
Unlike other clubs, like Manchester City or Chelsea, whose players could cost upwards of $80-90 million to purchase – not including transfer fees and add-ons -Burnley’s squad members could be more accessible to clubs who want someone to add to their depth chart.
That is exactly what Newcastle is thinking of doing with Burnley #1 – someone that the latter club doesn’t want to get rid of.
Burnley GK Could be Headed to Newcastle
Newcastle are highly interested in the Burnley goalkeeper for a small transfer fee to keep them in the top five spots in the Premier League Next year. Even if he doesn’t start, he could still be a great option to bring in off the bench if needed in case of an injury, illness, or suspension for their top-choice man between the posts.
James Trafford, the Burnley goalkeeper, is looking like the likely option for Newcastle, beating out other hopefuls who were excited to come to the promising Premier League club like Giorgi at Valencia. Trafford went to Burnley from the ever-top Manchester City last year.
You might be wondering why he left Pep’s club to go to a struggling Premier League side – well, at under 21 years old, he is one of the best goalkeepers for his age, but he wasn’t going to start over Ederson or the secondary keeper at the Etihad. So, he decided to go elsewhere to get playing time and get on the radar of big clubs – and that he did.
Trafford was instantly chosen as the first goalkeeper by the Burnley manager, the ex-Manchester City player himself, Vincent Kompany. Kompany easily transitioned from being one of the best defenders of all time into a respectable gaffer who has managed sides in his home country of Netherlands and in England where he played for so many years.
However, despite being made the first keeper for the young side, he didn’t do as well as one would have hoped from a promising U21 campaign for England and praise from Pep Guardiola. Based on his last year, he just needs more experience and confidence leading a team from the back – and Newcastle is hoping they can give him what he needs to succeed.
The 21-year-old is considering moving to Newcastle United for the 2024-2025 Premier League season. He is ‘highly desired’ by Eddie Howe and arguably the top choice for the club instead of other options, like a Valencia keeper who will cost Newcastle potentially more than he is worth.
Burnley Looking Forward
So, what happens to Burnley if Trafford leaves and goes to Newcastle? Last year, they ended up toward the very bottom of the Premier League, finishing in 19th place and earning just five wins on the season. They edged out Sheffield United and came behind lower teams like Nottingham Forest and Luton Town to round out the season.
They need a reliable and solid goalkeeper to start week in and week out to avoid errors and confidence issues in the back line.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
