James Trafford close to record transfer to Leeds for 40 million.

James Trafford has been excluded from the squad accompanying Manchester City on their pre-season tour, a decision that comes as a transfer to Leeds United, valued at £40 million, approaches. His absence from Enzo Maresca’s team announcement indicates that the transfer is set to be finalized.

According to local sources, Leeds United is close to agreeing on a record package for the club, which includes £40 million plus potential bonuses, thus surpassing the £35.5 million paid for Georginio Rutter in January 2023. Negotiations regarding personal terms are not expected to be a hurdle, with Trafford anticipated to join the club in this summer transfer window.

Meanwhile, Manchester City departed for Asia on Tuesday, where they will play matches in Hong Kong and Seoul over the next week. Maresca has selected a group of 28 players, among whom the goalkeeper is not included. Trafford is part of a small group of players who are still on a mandatory three-week holiday following their participation in the World Cup, where he was part of the England squad.

Leeds United is eager to finalize the deal, with Trafford’s preference being to join Daniel Farke’s team. The England international aims to compete with Jordan Pickford for the starting goalkeeper position, but to do so, he needs regular minutes at a club. This opportunity may arise at Elland Road, where currently only Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns make up the goalkeeping department, following Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier leaving their contracts to join Manchester United and Arsenal, respectively, in this transfer window.

The outcome of this transfer could have a significant impact on Trafford’s career, as he seeks to establish himself as a starter and enhance his chances of being selected for the national team. Confirmation of his move to Leeds United will not only mark a new chapter in his professional journey but will also strengthen the club’s position in the fight for promotion and competition in the Premier League.