Exclusive: Liverpool in race to sign young goalkeeper dubbed the next James Trafford
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Credit: Imago William Atherton: Liverpool keep tabs on Carlisle sensation dubbed ‘the next James Trafford’ Tue 31 March 2026 8:15, UK Liverpool, Manchester City, Everton and Burnley are keeping a close eye on Carlisle United sensation William Atherton, sources have told Football Insider.The 15-year-old has turned down the offer of a scholarship and early professional deal at the National League side and placed his high-profiel suitors on alert.Atherton could follow in the footsteps of England international James Trafford, who was spotted at Carlisle by Man City scouts and brought to the Etihad.Already standing a six-foot-two, the goalkeeper is very highly regarded and has caught they eye of watching scouts from a number of Premier League clubs.His decision to reject the contract offer from Carlisle could tempt the likes of Man City and Liverpool to make moves, with high hopes for his development. 🔄 Man City Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, elite targets, and contract news from the City Football Group boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Atherton has caught the eye playing for Carlisle’s youth sides, with scouts from a number of EFL clubs in attendance to keep tabs on his progress.Both Everton and Man City have previous experience poaching players from the Cumbrian club.Top-level goalkeepers are hard to come by at the moment, and the Premier League’s top clubs are keen to snap up the best talent from all over the country.The hope for Atherton would be for him to develop through the academy ranks before eventually establishing himself at the top level, similar to Trafford’s progression.Man City’s current number two goalkeeper has laid out an exciting path, and should the 15-year-old continue his progress, he will hope to replicate his success.James Trafford could leave Man City this summerAtherton is aiming to follow in the footsteps of current City and England goalkeeper Trafford after impressing at Carlisle and earning Premier League interest.The 23-year-old is set to be at the centre of his own transfer saga this summer, as he is believed to be unhappy playing second-fiddle to Gianluigi Donnarumma.Credit: ImagoFootball Insider revealed on 28 March that Newcastle are leading the race for Trafford, despite rival interest from the likes of Newcastle and Aston Villa.The goalkeeper came close to a move to St James’ Park last year before deciding to return to Man City, where he came through the academy after joining aged 12.He may now be tempted to finally join Eddie Howe’s side in a bid to nail down the number one spot both for his club and country in the near future.
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