The Magpies are looking to bolster the depth of their squad this summer after a struggle to rotate and maintain player fitness over last season, so they are expected to be busy filling several roles.
After finishing seventh in the Premier League table and failing to secure European football for next season, there will be a feeling of regression after bringing a top-four finish and Champions League to the North East in the campaign prior.
As a result, it would be no surprise to see lessons being learned and mistakes being rectified as Eddie Howe approaches his third full season in charge on Tyneside.
Injuries and ongoing fitness problems were the catalyst in Newcastle’s demise competitively over the last 12 months, so ensuring the squad is fit for rotation and capable of keeping up with the demands of competing in multiple competitions will be essential.
Italian journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has now reported that Newcastle are close to completing a deal for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, after agreeing personal terms with the young talent.
“Understand Newcastle have agreed personal terms with James Trafford as priority option to become new goalkeeper.”
“New proposal to Burnley expected soon, in the region of £15m with add-ons based on performances.”
“Man City will receive 20% of the fee from Burnley.”
Should Newcastle sign James Trafford?
There is no doubt that the St James’ Park faithful will feel that there are more pressing concerns to address in terms of spending inside of the club’s strict budget to acquire urgently needed talent.
However, with Loris Karius set to leave this summer, Martin Dubravka’s future at the club currently uncertain and Nick Pope just recently returning from long-term injury, the signing of Trafford could be a real blessing in disguise and the 21-year-old is an ideal long term prospect to succeed the current number one.
This would be the first signing of the summer for the Magpies, although the permanent deal for Lewis Hall from Chelsea has been completed after his successful season-long loan and free agent Lloyd Kelly is poised to join the club when his contract expires with Bournemouth in the next few weeks.
Indeed, it is highly likely that Trafford will not be considered first choice for Newcastle upon his arrival this summer, but will instead be the apprentice learning from Pope in the senior role with the intention of him becoming the prepared and moulded successor for his England teammate.
