Leeds United have signed goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City on a five-year contract, making him the club’s record signing. The transfer fee is reported to be around £40 million, with additional add-ons, surpassing Leeds’ previous highest transfer of £35.5 million paid for Georginio Rutter in 2023. Trafford, 23, also becomes the most expensive British goalkeeper to date, eclipsing the £30 million fee paid for Jordan Pickford’s move from Sunderland to Everton in 2017. Only a few goalkeepers worldwide—such as Kepa Arrizabalaga, Alisson Becker, and Andre Onana—have commanded higher transfer fees.
Trafford’s move to Elland Road follows his return to Manchester City last year from Burnley in a deal reportedly worth £27 million. However, his chances to establish himself as the first-choice goalkeeper at City were limited after the club signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain. During the 2025-26 season, Trafford featured in 17 games across all competitions, including every match as City secured the FA Cup and Carabao Cup titles, but he made just four Premier League appearances.
At Leeds, Trafford is expected to take the number one goalkeeper role under manager Daniel Farke. His arrival comes amid significant squad changes, with former first-choice keepers Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier departing for Manchester United and Arsenal, respectively. The transfer could also prompt the loan departure of Lucas Perri to Torino, with Alex Cairns likely to remain as third-choice goalkeeper.
Trafford has expressed his ambition to succeed Jordan Pickford as England’s number one. He has earned two caps for the national team and was part of the England squad at the recent World Cup. The goalkeeper acknowledges that regular playing time at Leeds will be essential to his international aspirations.
Leeds’ other recent summer signings include midfielder Harry Wilson, a free agent, and defender Tarik Muharemovic, who joined from Sassuolo for approximately £34 million. After completing his medical, Trafford said he is eager to focus on preparing for the new season and integrating with his new teammates.
The signing reinforces Leeds’ priority to strengthen their goalkeeper position following a busy summer of departures and arrivals, positioning Trafford as a key figure in their efforts for the upcoming campaign.