Newcastle United are taking a proactive approach in the build-up to this summer’s transfer window.
Indeed, Newcastle are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen a backline to have struggled last season.
They also made an attempt to land Fulham’s Tosin Adarabioyo on a free, although it was Chelsea who won the race for the player after the Magpies opted not to make a counter offer.
Now, it seems Newcastle are pressing ahead in their attempts to sign a new goalkeeper.
While Howe rates Nick Pope so highly that he was said to have been “crestfallen” when the England stopper dislocated his shoulder in December, the club are seemingly looking to strengthen in that particular position.
Martin Dubravka will reportedly be allowed to leave, while Loris Karius has departed. Though Mark Gillespie has signed a new contract, it would be a major shock to see him start to be involved on a regular basis all of a sudden.
Aaron Ramsdale of Arsenal has been linked with a move to St James’ Park, along with Valencia star Giorgi Mamardashvili
However, it is in fact a player hailed as “top” by his manager Vincent Kompany despite some iffy displays who the club are moving for.
Newcastle have now made a bid to sign Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford
According to The Daily Mail, Newcastle have tabled a bid to sign Burnley’s James Trafford.
Howe is said to value the 21-year-old highly and wants to persuade him that a move to St James’ would be the best thing for his career despite reported interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
Newcastle’s bid is believed to be worth around £16m but the Clarets are pushing more towards the £20m bracket as talks continue.
James Trafford already has the backing of Anthony Gordon at Newcastle
Trafford may not have covered himself in glory during a difficult season for Burnley but is certainly rated highly.
In fact, speaking of the goalkeeper’s performances during England’s victorious Euros U21 campaign last year, Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon was full of praise.
“He’s been outstanding all tournament,” he said.
“He possibly could have won player of the tournament being a goalkeeper, which is incredible. Didn’t concede a goal all tournament.”
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