Leeds United have reached a full verbal agreement to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford in a landmark deal worth up to £45 million. The 23-year-old England international is finalizing the remaining details of a long-term contract at Thorp Arch, positioning him as Daniel Farke’s primary target to anchor the club’s defense for the upcoming Premier League season.
The structural terms of the transfer involve an initial £40 million fee along with £5 million in performance-based add-ons. Once completed, the purchase will break Leeds United’s all-time transfer record while making Trafford the most expensive English goalkeeper in football history, eclipsing Jordan Pickford’s move to Everton.
Trafford spent the early part of the summer representing England at the 2026 World Cup in North America after competing for Manchester City across domestic and European fixtures last term. Despite featuring in 17 total matches for City, limited starting opportunities under Pep Guardiola prompted the talented shot-stopper to pursue a guaranteed starting position elsewhere.
The arrival comes during a total overhaul of Leeds United’s goalkeeping options, following the summer exits of Karl Darlow to Manchester United and Illan Meslier to Arsenal. Trafford is expected to undergo his medical exams in West Yorkshire over the coming days before being officially unveiled to supporters ahead of the league opener.