According to sources who spoke to Football Insider, Liverpool has a “concrete” interest in signing Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford during the summer transfer window.
This season, the 21-year-old has been frequently scouted by the Reds, who are closely monitoring his progress at Turf Moor.
The Merseyside club has been investigating possible backups for number one Alisson, according to a reliable source who spoke with Football Insider. This is because to concerns over the long-term health of backup Caoimhin Kelleher.
As the Reds prepare to usher in the Arne Slot era, recruitment officials reportedly regard Trafford, the former Manchester City academy prospect, highly and rank him at the top of their wishlist for a goalie.
Amid rumors of Kelleher’s departure, Liverpool looks to the future with a scouting visit to Trafford.
Alisson has missed more than 15 games due to injury, forcing Liverpool to rely heavily on backup Caoimhin Kelleher for much of the season. However, there are questions regarding the 25-year-old’s long-term future at Anfield.
This season, he has started 26 games for Liverpool across all competitions, in part due to Alisson’s rest throughout the League Cup and a large portion of the Europa League.
Up until recently, Trafford was Vincent Kompany’s first choice goalie. The England Under-21 player started 28 games for Burnley before being benched for Arijanet Muric.
Even though he has only managed to maintain two clean sheets this season, his shot-stopping abilities and ability to play out of the back with his feet have impressed.
Notably, Trafford was benched for the Three Lions’ 2-2 draw with Belgium in March after receiving his first call-up to the senior England side.
After spending the 2023–24 season on loan at League One team Bolton, the stopper would be making a significant step up if he were to join Liverpool.
Although Trafford’s contract with Turf Moor expires in2027, Liverpool may use the money they receive from the sale of Kelleher to reinvest in a move for the Young Lion.
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