𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Man City are considering a move for James Trafford, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Manchester City may be preparing to reunite with a familiar face as fresh reports from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reveal that the Premier League champions are seriously considering bringing James Trafford back to the Etihad Stadium.

According to Romano, contacts have already been made in recent days between City and representatives close to the player, signalling that discussions are progressing — albeit cautiously. The reigning champions currently have a buy-back clause embedded in Trafford’s contract, a key element that makes a potential move not only possible but strategically sound from City’s perspective.

The 21-year-old goalkeeper, who came through Manchester City’s academy system, left the club for Burnley in July 2023 in a deal worth around £15 million. Despite the departure, City were careful to insert a buy-back option, clearly signalling their belief in Trafford’s long-term potential. With performances that have turned heads in the Premier League, the young shot-stopper is once again on their radar.

However, Romano adds an important caveat — a deal to bring Trafford back will only go through if one of City’s current two senior goalkeepers departs this summer. Ederson and Stefan Ortega currently hold the No.1 and No.2 spots at the club, and there’s been speculation around the future of both players in recent weeks.

Ederson, despite his consistent performances, has drawn interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, Ortega has also attracted attention from European sides seeking a reliable first-choice keeper. If either leaves, the door would immediately open for Trafford to return and provide either competition or depth in the squad.

Trafford, who impressed for England at youth level and starred in the U21 European Championship, has continued to grow in stature since his move to Turf Moor. His command of the box, strong distribution, and ability to perform under pressure have earned praise, even in a Burnley side that faced significant challenges last season.

The idea of bringing back Trafford aligns with City’s long-standing strategy of grooming talent through their system and retaining long-term control over their future. The inclusion of buy-back clauses in outgoing transfers — a practice they have adopted more frequently in recent years — ensures they never completely close the door on promising academy graduates.

For Trafford, the chance to return to Manchester City would represent a full-circle moment. Having trained alongside elite talent in his formative years, a comeback now could offer him the platform to learn from — or even succeed — the likes of Ederson, should the Brazilian decide to take on a new challenge elsewhere.

City boss Pep Guardiola has always valued goalkeepers who are not only good shot-stoppers but also excellent with the ball at their feet. Trafford fits that mould well. His quick reflexes, comfort in possession, and calmness under pressure make him an ideal fit for Guardiola’s tactical demands.

Still, the situation remains fluid. Trafford’s camp is reportedly open to the move, but they are also monitoring the goalkeeping situation at City closely. Burnley, too, may be reluctant to let go of their No.1 without a suitable replacement lined up, which could complicate matters.

All in all, this is a potential transfer that hinges entirely on the domino effect — should Ederson or Ortega exit the Etihad, expect a swift move from City to activate their buy-back clause and bring Trafford home. Until then, it’s a watch-and-wait game — but one that fans should keep a close eye on.

Stay tuned, as more updates on James Trafford’s future could emerge in the coming days.