Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City would prefer to send Aston Villa, Leeds United and Newcastle goalkeeping target James Trafford out on loan.

James Trafford is expected to push for a move during the next summer transfer window. While he wanted to part ways during the winter transfer window, Manchester City ended up blocking a potential exit. They didn’t want to lose out on him in the final phase of the season.

While they might have managed to keep hold of him for now, City will struggle do that for long. Multiple top clubs want to sign the young shot-stopper on a permanent basis ahead of next season. But according to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester City will prefer a loan move.

Trafford came up the ranks at City and ended up leaving the club in the summer of 2023 in search of a prominent role. The decision to join Burnley worked in his favour, as he had two exceptional seasons with them.

With Ederson leaving the club, City were keen on signing a new goalkeeper ahead of the ongoing campaign. As a result, they ended up bringing Trafford back to the club. While the English international returned to the club with hopes of being their number one going forward, things haven’t worked out for him.

City had the opportunity to sign Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG very late last summer, and they quickly pounced on the opportunity. The Italian has since been their preferred choice in goal. As a result, Trafford has only had limited game time, and it has been frustrating for the 23-year-old.

Trafford to leave City next summer?

He doesn’t intend to be a bench warmer at City. As a result, Trafford is expected to push for a move ahead of next season. Aston Villa, Leeds and Newcastle have emerged as potential destinations for the youngster.

With Emiliano Martinez’s future uncertain, he could replace the Argentine at Villa Park. Meanwhile, Leeds seek an upgrade in goal, and Trafford can certainly help their cause. As far as the Magpies are concerned, they are looking for someone who can replace Nick Pope in the long run, and the City shot-stopper surely can.

With Donnarumma ahead of him in the pecking order, Trafford would prefer a permanent move. However, City do not want to lose complete control over his future; they prefer a loan move. They do not want to cash in on him, as he still remains an integral part of their long-term plans.