Overview
- Leeds confirmed the signing of James Trafford from Manchester City on a five‑year contract in a deal reported to be an initial £40m plus add‑ons and described as a club record.
- The transfer, completed on Thursday, follows Trafford’s medical at Elland Road and is driven by his desire for regular first‑team minutes after limited opportunities at City.
- Reports say Manchester City included a 20% sell‑on clause and matching‑rights provisions to protect their financial and sporting interest in any future sale of Trafford.
- Trafford’s arrival is set to make him Leeds’ first‑choice goalkeeper and is expected to clear the way for Lucas Perri to move to Torino, while City are linked with Gerónimo Rulli as an understudy.
- The fee places Trafford among the most expensive goalkeepers and signals Leeds’ heavy summer spending as they seek stability at the position and a platform for Trafford to push for England selection.