Expert: Newcastle United's 'priority' signing revealed amid 'major' concern

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(Credit: Imago) Thu 14 May 2026 9:48, UK James Trafford has emerged as the top target for Newcastle United amid concerns about their current goalkeeping options ahead of the summer window.Eddie Howe has not been convinced by Aaron Ramsdale, who will return to Southampton at the end of the season, while Nick Pope’s form has not been convincing.As a result, the addition of a new goalkeeper has become the “top priority” for the Magpies as they continue to assess a number of potential targets.Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Trafford is the standout option due to his likely availability as he eyes a move away from Man City.Howe’s side have been long-term admirers of the 23-year-old, having missed out last year, and could now agree a deal in what is an important window for Newcastle. 🔄 Newcastle Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on deals in progress, signings, departures, and contract news from the Newcastle United boardroom. VISIT THE NEWCASTLE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Newcastle finally sign James Trafford?Brown told Football Insider earlier this year that Trafford could push to leave Man City as he has been upset with his lack of regular playing-time this season.He originally returned to the Etihad to become their first-choice goalkeeper, but after the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma, he has played a rotational role.James Trafford 2025-26 StatsPremier LeagueChampions LeagueFA CupLeague CupAppearances3156Minutes Played27090450540Clean Sheets1024Goals Conceded4232James Trafford’s stats for Man City in 2025-26 across all competitions.

(via Transfermarkt)Newcastle are among a number of clubs who are keeping a close eye on his situation, but having come close to agreeing terms last year, they could make a fresh move.“Newcastle have a lot of positions they are worried about,” Brown told Football Insider.“But the goalkeeping situation there seems to be a major concern, because I don’t think they completely trust either of the options they’ve got at the moment.“Nick Pope is a good shot-stopper, but he’s shocking with the ball at his feet, and he makes far too many mistakes for a club with the ambitions Newcastle have.“Ramsdale came into the side for a while but it’s pretty telling that Pope has got the nod as soon as he’s come back from injury, so I don’t expect him to stick around.“That means they’re going to have to find a new goalkeeper as a priority, and Trafford certainly fits the profile of player they are looking for.“They came close to signing him before he moved to Man City, so if he’s going to be available again as I expect he is, he will be their top target.“He’s performed well when called upon for City and he’s part of the England setup, so that will tick a lot of boxes as far as Newcastle are concerned.“Trafford is pretty clearly the best available option at the moment, so if Newcastle do sign a new goalkeeper, they will want him to be the one.”Who else is in the race to sign Trafford?Despite Newcastle having been long-term admirers of the goalkeeper after they came close to signing him last summer, they will not be alone in their pursuit.A number of Premier League clubs have been keeping a close eye on his situation, with the likes of Leeds and Tottenham heavily linked with moves to land him.Credit: ImagoMeanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 1 May that Aston Villa could move to sign Trafford as they step up their efforts to bring in a new goalkeeper.Concerns about Emiliano Martinez’s long-term future have emerged with both Juventus and Inter Milan plotting moves to bring him to Serie A this summer.As a result, Unai Emery will be forced to strengthen in goal, and Trafford has emerged as a leading contender for the position given his qualities. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Newcastle Insider Access Get the full story from St James’ Park and Darsley Park with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Tyneside.