If Newcastle United fans want to know how good James Trafford is, just ask Cole Palmer.
The 21-year-old goalkeeper could be on his way to St James’ Park this summer, with Eddie Howe keen to sign a new stopper to provide competition for Nick Pope.
It has been reported that Newcastle United have already agreed personal terms with Trafford, having made a bid in the region of £16million over the weekend.
An increased offer will need to be submitted to Burnley, but it looks like Trafford is ready to make the move to the North East once he gets the green light from the Clarets.
It is a move that Toon fans will debate, having seen the club target bigger names like Giorgi Mamardasvhili and Aaron Ramsdale. Instead, Newcastle are going for the cheaper option, and someone who will definitely be a number two to Nick Pope.
What Cole Palmer said about James Trafford last year
However, Trafford is also a player who will come highly recommended by Chelsea superstar Cole Palmer, who has played alongside the goalkeeper at club and international level.
The pair came through the Manchester City academy together, while they have also represented England at youth level.
They were both part of the Three Lions’ Under-21s squad that won the European Championship last summer, with Palmer and Trafford playing massive roles in winning the final.
Palmer scored the decisive goal, while Trafford saved a stoppage time penalty to rob Spain of an equaliser. His save from 12 yards ensured that England won the Euros, much to the delight of Palmer and his teammates.
It was a nervy end to the final, but not for Palmer. He was videoed backing Trafford to save Spain’s penalty immediately before it was taken, and was quick to remind everyone how good he is after his prediction came true.
“I bet you he [Trafford] saves this,” he said on the touchline before the penalty was taken.
After the save, Palmer said: “Do you know how good this guy is?! Do you know how good he is?!”
He then added: “Mad, you know. When Traff saved that – my heart. I don’t have words anymore. So many people I’ve told how good he is.”
Newcastle United must have faith in James Trafford’s potential
While there are doubts surrounding Trafford given his performances in the Premier League for Burnley, he certainly is a player with a lot of potential.
That is a view shared by Palmer, who has played alongside Trafford since he was a teenager. He has seen in training and at youth level how talented he is, and has complete confidence in his ability.
Newcastle must share that confidence if they are willing to do a deal, and it would hint that they believe he can eventually develop into Pope’s replacement at St James’ Park.
If that proves to be the case then this will be looked back upon as brilliant business – assuming the Magpies are able to get this deal over the line.
It looks like it is heading that way, with personal terms agreed and Newcastle not a million miles away from Burnley’s asking price.
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