Goalkeeper attracted attention from Newcastle but City moved decisively to hijack the deal
Manchester City have brought goalkeeper James Trafford back to the club in a deal worth £27m, just two years after he was sold to Burnley.
The 22-year-old has signed a five-year contract with an option for an additional year, and will wear the No 1 shirt.
The move comes after interest from Newcastle United prompted City to accelerate talks with Burnley, despite initially planning to wait until they sorted out the futures of Ederson and Stefan Ortega.
Trafford came through City’s academy but has made 78 appearances for Burnley since he was sold to the Clarets in 2023.
Last season he kept 29 clean sheets as Scott Parker’s side returned to the Premier League.
His form attracted attention from Tyneside but City moved decisively to hijack the deal.
Trafford said: Rejoining City is such a special and proud moment for both me and my family. I always dreamed that one day I would be able to come back.
“This is the place I call home. It’s a truly special football club with fantastic people who make it such a unique place to work and play.”
