Manchester City are reportedly bracing for a bid from Galatasaray for their current first-choice goalkeeper, Ederson. As speculation swirls around potential replacements, it seems the club already has a preferred successor in mind. Despite links to other high-profile goalkeepers, Man City are increasingly focused on securing the services of a familiar face in James Trafford.
Man City eye James Trafford amidst Donnarumma links
Graeme Bailey reported for TBR Football that Manchester City had preliminary discussions about potentially signing Gianluigi Donnarumma. The PSG goalkeeper is reportedly evaluating his options, with only a year left on his current contract. Bailey also mentions that Chelsea, Galatasaray, AC Milan, and Bayern Munich are all monitoring Donnarumma’s situation, should he decide to leave PSG this summer.
However, despite the links to Donnarumma, Manchester City’s primary target appears to be James Trafford. The club’s interest in the Burnley goalkeeper has been apparent throughout the week. The links with the PSG goalkeeper may simply be a case of Man City covering all bases as they look to potentially replace Ederson.
James Trafford keen on Etihad return to replace Ederson
Tyrone Marshall of the Manchester Evening News has further confirmed Manchester City’s stance, reporting that there is no interest in signing FC Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Moreover, Marshall states that James Trafford is eager to rejoin Manchester City. This potential move hinges on Ederson’s possible transfer to Galatasaray, according to the report.
Until Ederson’s future is resolved, Manchester City will continue to be associated with numerous goalkeepers across Europe. While the club needs a reliable number-one should Ederson depart, Trafford is clearly the preferred option.
Guardiola’s goalkeeper succession plan
James Trafford is unlikely to return to Manchester City to play second fiddle. At 22, he is entering his peak years and desires to be the club’s first-choice goalkeeper. If he rejoins City this summer, he has a realistic opportunity to achieve that ambition. Bringing in someone like Donnarumma would hinder Trafford’s development and make little sense for either party.
In conclusion, while Manchester City are linked with several goalkeepers, including Gianluigi Donnarumma, James Trafford remains the frontrunner to succeed Ederson. Unless there’s a major shift in circumstances, Trafford’s return to the Etihad seems increasingly probable. The club’s strategy suggests a desire for a long-term solution, prioritizing a young, ambitious goalkeeper over a established superstar.
