Leeds United are on the verge of finalizing a landmark deal with Manchester City to secure the services of goalkeeper James Trafford. The proposed transfer, reportedly worth a minimum of £40m plus add-ons, would set a new record for an English goalkeeper. This surpasses Leeds' previous record signing of Georginio Rutter from Hoffenheim for approximately £35.5m in January 2023. With Karl Darlow's departure and Lucas Perri's underwhelming debut season, finding a new first-choice goalkeeper has become a top priority for Leeds this summer.
Currently, Perri and third-choice Alex Cairns are the only senior goalkeepers on Leeds' roster. According to reports from Sky in Italy, Torino is expected to confirm Perri's signing once Trafford's move from Manchester City is complete, with an initial loan agreement in place for the upcoming season, including an option for a permanent transfer next summer.