Liverpool showing interest in signing Kees Smit this summer
Liverpool shows interest in AZ Alkmaar's Kees Smit this summer.
Aston Villa is pursuing a summer transfer for Manchester City player James Trafford, valued at £40 million. The move comes amid concerns over first-choice goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's relationship with the club.
Aston Villa targeting summer move for £40m Man City star
Aston Villa are interested in signing Manchester City star James Trafford.
Emiliano Martinez is Villa’s first-choice goalkeeper this season, with the Argentine starting 28 Premier League matches.
But the 33-year-old has had an uneasy relationship with the Midlands club since he failed to get his desired transfer last summer.
Martinez hoped to join Manchester United, Chelsea or Atletico Madrid, but a move didn’t materialise.
The World Cup winner could still leave Villa Park this summer, despite his contract not expiring until 2029.
According to The Times, Villa are monitoring Trafford as a potential replacement for Martinez.
The young goalkeeper rejoined City for an initial £27 million from Burnley last summer.
But the Manchester club also brought in Gianluigi Donnarumma, who is currently Pep Guardiola’s first-choice stopper.
Aston Villa is targeting James Trafford to strengthen their squad, particularly in light of Emiliano Martinez's uncertain relationship with the club.
James Trafford is valued at £40 million as Aston Villa looks to secure his transfer from Manchester City.
Emiliano Martinez has started 28 Premier League matches this season as Aston Villa's first-choice goalkeeper.
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Trafford has made 14 appearances across all competitions this season, with only three coming in the Premier League.
He has still impressed as City’s back-up keeper, making a stunning triple save to help his side win the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.
Trafford would be an impressive signing for Villa, as he is young, boasts exceptional shot-stopping ability and has strong distribution skills.
But a transfer fee could be a major stumbling block, as City are likely to demand around £40 million to let their player leave this summer.
Villa also face competition for the 23-year-old’s signature, with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also keen on him.
Stats from Transfermarkt