Outrageous clause in James Trafford deal that may have put Newcastle off
Newcastle United have walked away from their pursuit of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.
After three years of being linked with the 23-year-old England stopper, Newcastle have finally thrown in the towel.
It now looks as though the Carlisle-born keeper is heading to Leeds United after it was revealed yesterday that Newcastle were no longer interested.
After three years of chasing and being linked with the star all the way through the World Cup, it came a bit out of the blue how quickly Newcastle had changed their minds.
Was Newcastle ever really in for Trafford?
Having said that, it was claimed before the summer transfer window got underway that Newcastle weren't going to pursue Trafford this summer, so perhaps the only thing that changed from the club's point of view was how the story was being reported.
Regardless, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed via X that Leeds United have agreed a €40 million (£34 million) deal, but he also claims that Manchester City have inserted a €60 million (£51 million) clause into the deal.
"EXCL: 🔵🟡 Leeds United agree deal to sign James Trafford from Manchester City. €40m fee agreed between the clubs and personal terms agreed.
"Understand his contract WILL include a buy back clause for Manchester City at €60m.
"Trafford will travel to Leeds for medical. #LUFC'
Keeping a tight leash
Clearly, Man City can't seem to let go of Trafford, and only time will tell if he can let go of them. It definitely feels like the plan is to let him go to Leeds to get plenty of first-team experience, and they'll pull the trigger to bring him back.
We're not sure which club is the cleverer here. Leeds have essentially got a loan deal but one that could net them £15 million, while Manchester City have kept a leash on a future superstar.
Either way, we can't help but feel that this may have been something that was proposed to Newcastle and they couldn't accept. If indeed any talks actually took place. It's still very likely that Newcastle simply chose to look elsewhere after missing out on Trafford for the last two summers.
