- Tottenham are monitoring James Trafford’s situation.
- Spurs see the Manchester City keeper as a possible replacement for Guglielmo Vicario.
- Trafford has struggled for minutes since joining City last summer.
Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford has been attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur, who are exploring options to replace Guglielmo Vicario.
Spurs goalkeeper Vicario is likely to leave the North London club at the end of the season, with Serie A giants Inter Milan among his probable destinations.
As a result, City shot-stopper Trafford has been identified as a potential target to replace the outgoing Italian.
However, according to a fresh report from The Sun, Spurs will face major competition from Newcastle, who also hold a long-term interest in the 23-year-old.
Tottenham enter race for Man City’s James Trafford
Having helped Burnley gain promotion to the Premier League last season, Trafford was highly in-demand during last summer’s window.
The young keeper came close to joining Newcastle, but eventually returned to boyhood club Man City in a £27 million move.
Tottenham are monitoring #ManCity’s James Trafford as they explore replacements for Guglielmo Vicario, although Newcastle are in the driving seat should he become available. Aston Villa are also eyeing up the 23-year-old.
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) April 7, 2026
[via @TomBarclay_]
Unfortunately, he has failed to make a league appearance since City signed world-class Italian international Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Trafford is therefore linked with several clubs that could give him more playing time, with Tottenham the latest to reveal their interest.
Aston Villa are another side linked, with Emi Martinez’s future uncertain, while Brighton may look to Trafford if Seagulls keeper Bart Verbruggen departs.
Trafford exit may be the best solution for all parties
Despite starting in Man City’s FA Cup quarter-final victory against Liverpool last weekend, Trafford has played just three Premier League games this campaign.
The arrival of Donnarumma has cut short his playing time, reducing one of England’s most promising goalkeepers to a backup and cup player.
James Trafford saves Mo Salah's penalty! 👏
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 4, 2026
📺 Watch live on TNT Sports on HBO Max pic.twitter.com/eeGeMBB5rZ
Given City’s significant £27m outlay and Trafford’s need to gain maximum experience and confidence as he develops, letting the academy graduate leave might be the right option.
It may feel like poor business from City, but if they can recoup some or all of what they spent, allowing Trafford to leave could suit all involved far better than the current situation.
Still, if Trafford is able to build on his current form, perhaps there is still a future for him at the Etihad Stadium. It is simply a case of whether or not he gets enough chances to impress.
