Burnley Reopen Talks Over Goalkeeper Sale

Burnley have reopened talks with Premier League side Newcastle United over a deal for goalkeeper James Trafford, according to talkSPORT.

The Magpies have long held an interest in the shot-stopper, having made a £15 million bid earlier this summer, which was rejected by the Clarets. It’s thought that any deal would take the shape of an initial loan deal, with the player moving to St James’ Park permanently next summer as Newcastle look to comply with Premier League profit and sustainability rules.

Trafford was a key part of Burnley’s Premier League side last season, playing 28 times before losing his place to Arijanet Muric. The 2023-24 campaign also saw him receive his first senior England call-ups, including to the provisional Euro 2024 squad, but he is yet to get on the pitch for his country.

It’s been a busy summer at Turf Moor as the Lancashire outfit rebuild for the Championship under new manager Scott Parker, with a number of outgoings thus far. The likes of Sander Berge and Wilson Odobert have both made the switch to the Premier League for profit, whereas squad players Scott Twine and Johann Berg Gudmundsson have moved to Bristol City and Saudi club Al-Orobsah FC respectively.

Despite these sales it’s been a fairly successful start to the season for Burnley, who currently lie fifth in the Championship with two wins from three and the league’s best attack. The club have been similarly impressive at the back, and will be hoping that continues throughout the campaign as they look for instant promotion. Whether that’s with Trafford, though, looks uncertain.

Writer’s View

It’s been a summer of upheaval at Burnley and while this deal has been widely talked about, these particularly terms seem strange were the two clubs to agree on them. There would be no profit for the selling club on the £15 million they spent a year ago and wouldn’t get any fee until next season, which wouldn’t help them bounce back immediately.

It makes sense from the player’s point of view, though, and if he wants to go it’s logical for Burnley to sell, but it’s easy to think they could do better than this deal.