Newcastle United have yet to advance their pursuit of goalkeeper James Trafford following England’s World Cup campaign, with the 23-year-old now on holiday. Sources close to the club indicate that Trafford has not been discussed in recent transfer talks, raising questions about whether Newcastle have cooled their interest amid Manchester City’s reported £50 million asking price.

Insiders at both Newcastle’s St James’ Park and Manchester City confirm that no formal contact has taken place since England returned from the United States. As a result, Newcastle appear poised to begin their pre-season preparations with Nick Pope as their first-choice goalkeeper. Pope, who reclaimed his starting role last season after being dropped briefly following an error against Everton, has been assigned the number 1 shirt ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Ewen Jaouen is expected to serve as Pope’s primary backup, while long-serving squad goalkeeper Mark Gillespie continues to provide depth behind the scenes. Despite the current setup, the possibility remains that Newcastle could sign an additional goalkeeper before the transfer window closes.

Last season, Newcastle opted not to pursue a permanent transfer for Aaron Ramsdale, another goalkeeper in their ranks. The ongoing status of their goalkeeper lineup will be closely watched as the club gears up for the new campaign.