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Chelsea eye James Trafford as Newcastle plot new bid

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Chelsea eye James Trafford as Newcastle plot new bid

Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford is now a target for Chelsea while Newcastle United are planning a new bid, says reporter Alan Nixon.

Burnley are gearing up for a return to the Championship and, after a period of uncertainty, it is hoped that the vision for the future will start to become a little clearer now that a new manager is in place.

After many rumors, Scott Parker has been named as Vincent Kompany’s replacement.

Image courtesy of: PEDRO NUNES/REUTERS.

He will be looking to achieve a third promotion from the Championship, having led Fulham and Bournemouth to the Premier League previously. That will also be the expectation, with plenty of talent still in the Clarets’ ranks.

Players are certain to leave, with James Trafford among those wanted. Burnley have already turned down an offer from Newcastle United.

Now, writing on his Patreon, reporter Alan Nixon claims the Magpies are ready to return for the English talent. They see him as a future number one and will approach the £30million valuation set.

But they are not the only ones interested, with Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca among their admirers.

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Back to the first division?

Burnley struggled last season and young goalkeeper Trafford was not exactly a shining star in a struggling team.

The former Bolton Wanderers loanee was not particularly convincing in goal behind a dismal Clarets backline. He demonstrated the ability on the ball that has been evident before, but inspiring displays were few and far between.

Image courtesy of: PHIL NOBLE/REUTERS.

However, it is that confidence on the ball that makes Trafford such a hot commodity. Clubs demand that from their goalkeepers now, and it is harsh to judge a young goalkeeper after a season with one of the league’s weakest teams.

So it wouldn’t be a surprise if Trafford were to return to the Premier League immediately following Burnley’s relegation.

The battle for a starting spot

A change in management gives players the chance to stake their claim for a starting spot, so expect Turf Moor’s goalkeepers to be pushing for a place in Parker’s starting XI over the summer.

Trafford held the number one jersey for much of last season, but his struggles saw Arijanet Muric come in and impress later in the season.

Having started as Burnley and won the league in the 2022/23 season, that could give Muric an edge in the race for first-team football this time around too.

Trafford would have a good chance of keeping his place given his ability on the ball. The backline should be much more cohesive next year too, so he wouldn’t be relied on to make saves as often.

The youngster may not even be in the plans at the start of the season, with Chelsea and Newcastle United keeping an eye on his situation.

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