A bold transfer rumor has emerged as uncertainty clouds the future of Manchester United’s current No. 1 goalkeeper, André Onana. His inconsistent performances this season have sparked doubts among fans and pundits about whether he remains a long-term fit at Old Trafford. With Ruben Amorim at the helm, navigating a challenging campaign, the potential signing of a new goalkeeper could mark a pivotal shift in United’s goalkeeping ranks.
The rise of James Trafford has been impressive. After joining Burnley from Manchester City in the summer of 2023 for a fee that could rise to £19 million, the young English goalkeeper initially struggled as Burnley suffered relegation from the Premier League. However, he has turned his form around spectacularly in the Championship, where he has been a standout performer, helping Burnley push for an immediate return to the top flight.
Trafford has recently broken records with a remarkable run of 11 consecutive clean sheets, going nearly 1,000 minutes without conceding. This achievement has played a significant role in Burnley’s climb up the Championship table, and his performances have earned him a call-up to the England senior squad under coach Thomas Tuchel in March 2025.
This season, Trafford has kept 26 clean sheets in 37 league games, and his exceptional reflexes, strong distribution, and composed demeanor have drawn comparisons to some of the top goalkeepers in the world. As a result, bigger clubs have taken notice, with Manchester United reportedly keen on signing him.
The timing of United’s interest is crucial. Onana, who was brought in from Inter Milan for £43.8 million in 2023, has struggled to consistently replicate the form that saw him reach the Champions League final. High-profile errors, including a disastrous performance against Ipswich Town earlier this season, have fueled rumors of his potential departure, with reports suggesting a move to the Saudi Pro League could be on the cards. Additionally, backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is expected to seek a new challenge, leaving United with a dangerously thin goalkeeper depth chart.
Amorim, under pressure to turn around United’s disappointing season and a position of 13th in the Premier League, reportedly sees Trafford as a long-term solution. The idea is that Trafford could initially compete with Onana for the starting role, eventually becoming the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. However, securing Trafford’s signature will not be an easy task. Burnley, with minority owner JJ Watt backing them, is reluctant to part ways with their prized asset, especially with promotion to the Premier League within reach.
Trafford’s value has skyrocketed to around £30 million, and competition for his signature is fierce. Clubs like Newcastle United, Arsenal, and even Manchester City are also rumored to be interested in signing the former City academy product. For United, bringing in Trafford fits their strategy of investing in young, high-potential talent instead of expensive veterans. However, the move still carries risk, as Trafford’s experience in the Premier League is limited, and his ability to adapt to the pressure of playing for a high-profile club like United remains uncertain.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the race for Trafford’s signature will intensify, with Manchester United facing stiff competition. Will they manage to secure the talented goalkeeper, or will their rivals swoop in at the last minute? The outcome of this saga will have significant implications for the future of United’s goalkeeping situation.
