The Mail claim Rangers are interested in raiding Manchester City to sign goalkeeper James Trafford ahead of the January transfer window. Trafford is currently out on loan at English League One side Bolton, until the end of 22-23.
Joining Bolton in January of this year, the 20-year-old shot-stopper instantly became first choice under Ian Evatt. In less than a year, the England Under-21 international has clocked up 46 senior outings – keeping 18 clean sheets.
Indeed, the highly-rated Manchester City starlet has only conceded 41 goals. A really impressive start to his career. But the chances of him making it at Manchester City are slight. Trafford has interest from north of the border.
Michael Beale has three goalkeeping options available to him. Allan McGregor remains first choice, while Jon McLaughlin and Robby McCrorie are currently providing cover. But a reshuffle is expected in that department.
Rangers interested in Manchester City goalkeeper Trafford
This would be an incredibly smart signing. Already, Trafford is exuding the kind of class and quality expected of a goalkeeper much elder than he is – at 20. Even his manager, Evatt, described him as “first class”, recently.
Not only are his stats impressive, but he is comfortable with the ball at his feet – such is the requirements of a modern-day goalkeeper. Certainly, one that has come through the ranks at Manchester City. There is an issue.
Trafford has signed a deal at City until the summer of 2027, underlining how rated he is at The Etihad. Whether Rangers can convince City over a permanent deal – remains to be seen. Bolton will want to keep him in January.
But he is on Rangers’ radar. McGregor is out of contract in the summer at 40, while 35-year-old McLaughlin is about to enter the last 18 months of his deal. McCrorie is yet to stake his claim. Trafford could be the future.
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