NafisaLeeds United are now on the verge of officially unveiling James Trafford after completing the formal steps of what will become the biggest transfer in the club’s history.
After weeks of negotiations with Manchester City, the Whites have finally reached the final stage of the deal, with all major hurdles now cleared.
The England goalkeeper has completed his medical tests, while Leeds United and Manchester City are exchanging the final signed documents needed to complete the transfer.
The move, expected to be worth around £45 million, will comfortably surpass Leeds’ previous transfer record and underlines the ambition of Paraag Marathe, the 49ers and Daniel Farke ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
Supporters have endured a lengthy wait for the announcement after Trafford returned from his extended post-World Cup break, while both clubs finalised the structure of the agreement, including various contractual details.
Those remaining formalities have now been completed, meaning only the official confirmation from Leeds United remains.
Trafford has been Daniel Farke’s first-choice goalkeeping target throughout the summer despite interest from several Premier League clubs.
Newcastle United explored a move before deciding against matching the financial package, while Manchester City insisted on completing their own goalkeeping plans before allowing the England international to leave permanently.
Leeds never wavered in their pursuit and maintained confidence that Trafford wanted the move to Elland Road.
The 23-year-old arrives with an outstanding reputation after establishing himself as one of England’s brightest goalkeeping talents.
His performances for Burnley earned widespread praise, while he also enhanced his growing reputation with Manchester City, helping the club lift domestic silverware whenever called upon.
The signing represents another significant statement from Leeds following the arrivals of Harry Wilson and Tarik Muharemovic, with further reinforcements expected before the transfer window closes.
Attention will now turn to strengthening Daniel Farke’s attacking options, but securing Trafford has always been viewed internally as one of the club’s biggest priorities.
With the medical completed and paperwork now being exchanged between the two clubs, Leeds supporters can finally begin counting down to the official announcement.
Barring any last-minute administrative delay, James Trafford is now set to become a Leeds United player in what is one of the most significant transfers in the club’s modern history.
Nafisa
