Report: Man City consider £40m buy-back as keeper reshuffle looms

James Trafford Eyes Manchester City Return as Keeper Reshuffle Looms

Trafford Talks Signal Shift in City’s Goalkeeping Plans

According to TBR Football, James Trafford has held discussions with Manchester City regarding a potential return to the Etihad, as the club contemplates a shake-up in their goalkeeping department. With Ederson and Stefan Ortega both attracting external interest, City could be preparing for a major overhaul between the sticks.

Trafford, 22, has impressed since making the £19 million switch to Burnley in 2023 and has established himself as one of England’s brightest young keepers. He’s also been a regular in England squads since 2024, although he’s still awaiting his senior debut.

As Graeme Bailey of TBR Football reports: “Discussions have taken place between City and Trafford,” highlighting that this is more than just speculation. Trafford, a product of City’s own academy, appears open to the idea of returning to Manchester.

Newcastle Stalemate Opens Door for City

It’s worth noting that Trafford had already agreed personal terms with Newcastle United, but protracted negotiations with Burnley have stalled that move. This delay has seemingly opened the door for Manchester City to activate their £40 million buy-back clause, a figure they’re now seriously weighing up.

“City are looking into bringing him back to the Etihad – and Trafford is keen on a return,” Bailey confirmed.

That’s significant not only for City but also for Trafford’s career trajectory. A return to Manchester would represent both a step up and a massive opportunity to compete at the highest level again, potentially even as a long-term number one.

Exit Looming for Ederson and Ortega?

One of the more intriguing subplots is the status of City’s current goalkeepers. Ederson, long viewed as one of the Premier League’s finest distributors, and Ortega, who impressed in limited appearances last season, are both reportedly weighing their options.

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TBR Football states: “City consider moving on from both Ederson and Ortega this summer,” suggesting that Trafford’s return is part of a larger strategic rethink.

Trafford’s Future Could Define City’s Next Era

With his roots in the City academy and his rising profile, Trafford fits the modern mould of a Pep Guardiola goalkeeper – calm, technically sound, and composed under pressure. Bringing him back now, especially if one or both of Ederson and Ortega leave, could secure the club’s goalkeeping future for the next decade.

His development at Burnley, combined with national team experience, shows he’s ready to make that leap – and the £40m investment would reflect City’s faith in that progression.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester City supporter’s perspective, this story feels like a classic case of full circle. Trafford left with plenty of promise, and he’s since matured into a solid goalkeeper. His displays for Burnley may not have grabbed headlines week in and week out, but anyone who watched his calmness under pressure, especially in the promotion campaign, knows the kid has serious potential.

Ederson’s long-term future has looked questionable ever since those rumblings of Saudi interest, and Ortega, while dependable, probably isn’t content being a backup forever. So bringing Trafford back not only makes sense financially – thanks to the buy-back clause – but it also ticks the emotional and strategic boxes. He knows the club, the expectations, and he’d have the chance to grow in a more competitive squad.

Some fans might feel £40m is steep, but given how inflated the goalkeeper market has become, it’s arguably a bargain for a 22-year-old already in the England setup. Even if he doesn’t start immediately, Trafford could learn from Guardiola and gradually take the reins.

In short, it’s a smart long-term move that City fans can get behind – especially if it marks the start of a new generation at the Etihad.