James Trafford sent Leeds United transfer warning with Aaron Ramsdale example
The goalkeeper is closing in on a £40million move to become Leeds United’s No.1.
A former Premier League goalkeeper has warned James Trafford of the potential challenge if Leeds United fall into a ‘difficult’ 2026/27 season.
Trafford is close to completing a £40million move to Elland Road, where he will become Leeds’ undisputed No.1. The 23-year-old is keen to leave Manchester City just one year after returning, with regular football the priority ahead of a fresh four-year World Cup cycle.
The completion of a club-record move for Trafford will only intensify the optimism felt around Elland Road as Leeds look ahead to their second consecutive Premier League campaign. But no one is under any illusions that top-flight safety is guaranteed.
Asmir Begovic believes both Trafford and Leeds should benefit from the move, with the opportunity for a top goalkeeper to play regular football. But the former Stoke City shot-stopper warned of the potential perils of being between the posts in a relegation battle.
“If you look at English goalkeepers, there’s not many young ones around of his calibre,” Begovic told Sky Sports. “That brings a certain transfer fee. When you look at James Trafford, he made a brave move to Burnley, did well there and then Man City bought him back.
“You don’t say no to Man City, the financial rewards and everything else. It might not have been the best move for his career but he has to do it for many different reasons. Now I think the Leeds move is a really good move for him because if he gets to play week in, week out in the Premier League he’s in a fantastic situation.
“But Leeds are a team that aren’t exactly established in the Premier League. They could have a season where it becomes difficult. I look at the likes of Aaron Ramsdale, there are players who get lost a little bit in the cycle. I hope it works out for him, I think it's a good move for Leeds and I wish him all the very best.”