Leeds United Interested In Manchester City Star Who Could Solve Long-Term Problem

Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford is attracting interest from Leeds United, who are considering a January move.

It’s been a solid start to the season upon returning to the Premier League for Leeds United.

The Lilywhites sit 16th in the table, eight points clear of the relegation zone.

Leeds’ injury problems are beginning to improve, and manager Daniel Farke has been positive in his press conferences recently.

But while they have performed well at times, a consistent issue has been their goalkeeping.

Last Thursday’s goalless draw with Liverpool was Leeds’ first clean sheet since August, when they also drew 0-0 with Newcastle United.

During that 15-game run, they conceded 27 goals, costing them a huge number of points.

Had they been able to keep just a couple of clean sheets, they could find themselves well clear of any relegation battle.

The club had hoped that signing Lucas Perri from Lyon had solved their keeping problem.

But his poor form has only left manager Daniel Farke with more questions to answer.

Last season, Illan Meslier was first choice, but repeated errors saw him benched towards the end of the campaign.

With nobody staking a solid claim for the No. 1 jersey, Leeds now look to be considering other options.

Leeds United Rekindle Interest In James Trafford

Former Burnley keeper James Trafford was linked to Leeds over the summer.

But the 23-year-old instead chose what looked to be a dream return to boyhood club Manchester City.

James Trafford returns to City! pic.twitter.com/3aANdYihks

— Manchester City (@ManCity) July 29, 2025

However, with City signing Italian shot-stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma, Trafford found himself quickly benched at the Etihad.

His chances of regular playing time evaporated overnight when City brought in one of the best keepers in the world.

As a result, Trafford is expected by most to pursue a move away.

Leeds are long-term admirers, and are considering a loan move for Trafford until the end of the season.

With relegation fears easing as the campaign wears on, Leeds look like a far more appealing prospect than they did in August.

Why Leeds United Should Sign Man City Keeper Trafford

Leeds’ goalkeepers have struggled for some time, no matter who has been playing.

Perri was blamed by many for Matheus Cunha’s goal against Manchester United, with plenty of calls for him to be dropped.

But given the disaster that was Meslier at times last season, the club are very limited when it comes to viable options.

Trafford is therefore an option that makes sense. The City keeper is available, and a loan move would benefit all involved.

Clawed off the line ❌

James Trafford picks up @CocaCola Save of the Month for August pic.twitter.com/MB3vcWdC1t

— Premier League (@premierleague) September 12, 2025

If they can sign him with an option or obligation to buy in the summer – provided they stay up – it could be a great deal.

City will be reluctant to let Trafford leave permanently, given the £27 million they paid in the summer.

Trafford is one of the best young keepers in the country, and needs to be playing regularly.

At Leeds, he would be a guaranteed starter in a Premier League outfit.

And given the club’s current goalkeeping nightmare, making a move for Trafford could be a vital move to ensure Premier League survival.