West Ham United are preparing to test Manchester City’s resolve with a summer approach for goalkeeper James Trafford, according to reports by SportsBoom.
The 23-year-old shot-stopper only returned to the Etihad Stadium last summer, two years after departing to join Burnley.
Yet despite that homecoming, the England Under-21 European Championship winner could find himself on the move once more when the transfer window reopens.
Trafford’s situation has shifted notably over the course of the campaign. After beginning the season between the posts in City’s opening three Premier League fixtures, opportunities have since been limited.
The late-window arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma altered the hierarchy, reducing Trafford’s league involvement and leaving him largely restricted to domestic cup competitions.
His return to Manchester last year had appeared a calculated step. A clause inserted into his Burnley contract allowed Manchester City to match any incoming offer.
When Newcastle United saw a bid accepted by Burnley, City moved swiftly to trigger that clause and bring their academy graduate back.
For Trafford, the decision to choose City over Newcastle was rooted in ambition. Competing at the highest level and positioning himself as a potential successor to Jordan Pickford in the England set-up ahead of the 2026 World Cup formed part of the appeal.
A return to Pep Guardiola’s squad offered the promise of elite competition and the chance to sharpen his credentials on the biggest stages.
However, football rarely follows a straightforward script. With Donnarumma’s arrival reshaping the goalkeeping department and January seeing Stefan Ortega depart for Nottingham Forest, Trafford has largely operated as understudy.
His appearances have come primarily in the FA Cup and Carabao Cup — platforms he has used to underline his ability.
He featured in the FA Cup fourth-round victory over Salford City and the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle United, performances that reignited discussion about his future.
Speaking after the win over Salford, Trafford offered a candid assessment of his campaign. “It was nice, it wasn’t what I expected coming into the season.
“I tried to guard against the situation happening but it’s the reality and I know every time I play, I have to give it my best shot and try and win and try and improve. It’s the current situation I’m in.”
The remarks hinted at a player balancing professionalism with quiet frustration — determined to seize every opportunity while acknowledging the challenges of his current role.
Trafford’s future uncertain as Premier League clubs circle
Trafford did not shy away from the uncertainty surrounding his next step. His contract binds him to City, yet he recognises that development at this stage of his career hinges on regular football.
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“I haven’t spoken to them [about] if that’s enough, but I play as well as I can and train every day very hard and it’s just down to me. Obviously everyone knows what’s going on with me, so I’ve just got to, whenever I play, play as well as I can.
“I’ve obviously got a contract, so yeah, I don’t know what happens next season. I just know that I’ll just take it a day at a time and try and improve.”
Those words leave the door open for a summer exit if circumstances do not change.
West Ham’s reported interest signals intent. The Hammers are understood to be monitoring the situation closely as they assess their options ahead of the new campaign.
Any approach, however, would depend on their Premier League status being secured — a key factor in determining transfer budgets and recruitment strategy.
They are not alone in their admiration. Aston Villa are also said to be keeping tabs on Trafford, setting up the possibility of a competitive race should City sanction his departure.
