Leeds United have completed the signing of goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City in a club-record transfer.
The 23-year-old has signed a five-year contract with Leeds, although the club did not disclose the financial terms of the deal when announcing the move on Thursday evening.
Sky Sports reports that the transfer is worth an initial £40m, making Trafford the most expensive player in Leeds United’s history.
The deal also makes Trafford the most expensive British goalkeeper ever and the fourth most expensive goalkeeper in world football.
Only Kepa Arrizabalaga, Alisson Becker and Andre Onana have cost more. Kepa joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao for £72m, Alisson moved to Liverpool from Roma for £67m, while Onana transferred to Manchester United from Inter Milan for £47.2m.
Trafford leaves Manchester City after making 17 appearances in all competitions last season. His matches included fixtures in both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
The 1.91m goalkeeper has been a key figure for England at several age-group levels and was subsequently included in the senior squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking to Leeds United’s official channel, Trafford said he was not concerned about having to prove himself to anyone.
“I don’t really care if I have to prove anything to anybody. I know my abilities well. I go out on to the pitch and give it my all, and try to enjoy it as much as possible,” he said.
Trafford also expressed his relief that the move had finally been completed and said his attention could now turn to preparing for the new campaign.
“I’m really excited and really happy that everything is finally done. Now I can focus on getting ready for the new season and joining everybody next week,” he added.
The goalkeeper said the atmosphere around Leeds had played a major part in attracting him to the club, highlighting the enthusiasm of both the supporters and those working within the organisation.
“Leeds is a great club, full of energy and passion, both from the club and the fans. That makes a difference, because the energy of the team, the players and the fans contributes to the results and the performances,” Trafford said.
His arrival represents a significant investment by Leeds and gives the club a goalkeeper with experience of domestic and European football, as well as international involvement with England. The agreement takes him away from the Etihad Stadium after his latest season with Manchester City and begins a new five-year chapter at Leeds United.