Manchester City have opened discussions with Burnley in a bid to bring James Trafford back to the Etihad, with the club looking to negotiate a fee below the £40 million buy-back clause agreed during his 2023 departure.
Talks are at an early stage, but Manchester City are understood to be keen to capitalise on the clause while retaining financial flexibility.
The move hinges on the future of either Ederson or Stefan Ortega, with at least one expected to leave should the 22-year-old return.
This conditional approach reflects City's careful squad planning, ensuring depth in goal without overloading the position.
Trafford enjoyed an outstanding 2024/25 season at Burnley, keeping 29 clean sheets in 45 appearances – a level of consistency that has not gone unnoticed in Manchester. His development since leaving the club has been closely monitored, and City view him as a viable long-term option.