Manchester City Push for James Trafford Return Amid Ederson, Ortega Uncertainty

Manchester City are trying to bring back a familiar face to the Etihad – 22-year-old goalkeeper James Trafford – just two years after selling him to Burnley. But there's a catch: they want to avoid paying the full £40 million buy-back clause they inserted into his contract when he left in 2023.

Trafford, who came through City’s academy, was sold to Burnley for around £19 million plus add-ons. Despite the move, City were always careful to keep the door open for a return, inserting a hefty buy-back clause in the deal. With the 2025-26 season fast approaching, that clause has now become relevant, but City are hoping to strike a cheaper deal. 

According to Sky Sports, City have made formal contact with Burnley to begin negotiations, hoping to lower the buy-back price. But Burnley aren't in a rush to let their No. 1 go, especially after Trafford's standout 2024-25 season where he kept an astonishing 29 clean sheets in 45 appearances, helping Burnley concede just 16 goals all season.  

Trafford was close to moving to Newcastle United last summer. He had agreed personal terms, but Burnley and Newcastle failed to agree on a fee. Trafford later admitted he was “disappointed” that the transfer didn’t go through, but he didn’t let it affect his game – his performances since then have only raised his stock. 

If Trafford does leave Turf Moor this summer, Burnley will need a replacement. One of the names in the frame is Stefan Ortega – the 31-year-old German keeper who’s been backing up Ederson at City. Ortega has made 56 appearances since arriving in 2022, mostly in cup competitions and as an occasional Premier League deputy. Burnley boss Scott Parker is said to be monitoring Ortega as a potential successor to Trafford, although there’s been no official approach just yet. 

Meanwhile, the future of City’s current goalkeepers remains uncertain. Ederson and Ortega are both into the final 12 months of their contracts, and speculation is growing about possible exits. Ederson in particular has drawn interest from multiple clubs – reports suggest a £2.6 million bid has been made by a Turkish club, while two major Saudi clubs are also chasing his signature. Ortega’s situation is also unresolved. Although he’s been a reliable second choice, he may look elsewhere for more regular football, especially with his contract winding down. 

City have already moved to add depth to their goalkeeping ranks. They recently signed Marcus Bettinelli from Chelsea, with the veteran expected to take over the role vacated by Scott Carson. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that discussions between City and Burnley are already underway. In his latest update on X, he stated: “Contacts between Man City and Burnley have already started as City want to negotiate fee lower than buy back clause worth £40m. Deal also depends on Ortega or Éderson exit.” 

So, while City are working on bringing Trafford home, everything is connected. The decision could hinge on who leaves the Etihad first – Ederson or Ortega – and whether Burnley are ready to part ways with a goalkeeper who’s been nothing short of sensational. 

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