Manchester City are now in advanced talks to sign an “unbelievable” star, and they are looking to get a deal wrapped up before the end of July.
Ederson's Man City future up in the air
In recent days, there have been conflicting reports surrounding Ederson’s future at the Etihad Stadium, with Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg initially suggesting the Brazilian was closing in on a move to Turkish champions Galatasaray.
Since then, however, widespread reports have suggested City are keen to keep hold of their goalkeeper for the final year of his contract, which means it may not be necessary to bring in a replacement in the near future.
Having been number one throughout his time at the Etihad, Ederson is unlikely to want to play second fiddle, but there has now been a suggestion that Pep Guardiola’s side are making progress in their pursuit of a new goalkeeper.
Give Me Sport writer Sam C, has now taken to X to reveal that Man City are in “advanced talks” over a move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford.
The deal is by no means sealed at this point, but there is a willingness to try and get it over the line before the end of July, although it is unclear whether the Blues will need to fork out the full £40m buy-back clause included in their former player’s contract.
Trafford could be "unbelievable" Ederson heir
Minority Burnley owner JJ Watt was left very impressed after the shot-stopper made two penalty saves in one game during the Clarets’ 0-0 draw against Sunderland last season, lauding the 22-year-old as “unbelievable”.
The Englishman’s penalty-saving ability is one of his key strengths, ranking in the top 1% for spot-kicks prevented per 90 over the past year, while also placing in the top 1% for his save percentage and goals against over the same time period.
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As such, the Burnley star could be the ideal heir to Ederson, particulrly considering City expert Steven McInerney believes the goalkeeper is also impressive in possession of the ball, saying: “Trafford is very good, remarkably good with the ball at his feet,
“Maybe not quite Ederson, but if Ederson’s a 10 out of 10, James is at least a nine. Ederson is a freakish one-of-one that way, but I don’t think you have to be the very best in the world at passing to be successful in a passing side.”
It remains to be seen whether City sanction Ederson’s departure this summer, but if they do, there may be no better replacement than Trafford.