Aston Villa have held initial talks with James Trafford’s representatives in recent weeks

Aston Villa have held initial talks with James Trafford’s representatives in recent weeks

Aston Villa have held initial talks with the representatives of Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford in recent weeks, according to reports. Aston Villa manager Unai Emery could be in need of a new goalie this summer with Emi Martinez still likely to leave the Villa Park club after getting close to an exit last summer. Trafford has now emerged as a target for the Villans and the 23-year-old is expected to leave Man City this summer. The Midlands club are not the only ones monitoring the England international, with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also keen.

However, wages have been a stumbling block for the Magpies, while Spurs need to stay up to have any chance of signing Trafford. Villa are not favourites to sign the Englishman, but securing Champions League football for next season could boost their chances. Trafford joined Man City last summer but has already lost his spot to . He has not played in the Premier League since the Italian arrived and has made 14 appearances in all competitions this term.