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James Trafford's first words as Leeds player as new goalkeeper makes 49ers point

· Isaac Johnson · 2026-08-07 · nguồn gốc

A confident James Trafford says he has “full belief” that he can help take Leeds United to the next level amid the 49ers' club vision and his personal goal to be England number one. Trafford became the club’s record signing on Friday when putting pen to paper on a five-year deal upon his £40million - plus bonuses - move from Manchester City. Daniel Farke hopes he can be the solution to the merry-go-round of first choice goalkeepers of recent years. The 23-year-old played just 17 times last season having been relegated to number two upon the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma. His harbouring of England ambitions meant a move this summer was inevitable, especially once new Man City boss Enzo Maresca decided Donnarumma would stay first pick. However, that has not dented Trafford’s belief in his own ability. “I don’t really care if I have a point to prove,” he told LUTV after arriving at Elland Road. “I know my own abilities. I go out and try as hard as I can and have as much fun as I can. Everything that comes with it is what it is. “I am really excited and just really happy that it is finally done. I can get onto preparing for the new season and can focus on getting in with everyone next week.” The transfer comes as a flagship moment for the 49ers as owners, who have placed great faith in Trafford and acquired a goalkeeper who would be first choice for most of the division outside of the big six. The hierarchy set out their long-term ambitions during talks with Trafford, who has bought into the vision. “They want to take the club to where it has been historically and I think everyone here believes that is going to happen,” he explained. “They are clear in what they want and, yeah, full belief it is going to happen. To take Leeds to the next step, it is just to keep going on the track they have been going on since the manager came in. “Obviously, close to getting promoted out of the Championship, lost in the final, then got promoted with 100 points, then stayed up and got better through the season. “It shows that something is going well and they are sticking to a good process. You have just got to keep on that same trajectory.” Trafford’s England ambitions have never been a secret throughout his career. Still relatively young in the lifespan of a goalkeeper, many back the two-cap shot-stopper to eventually usurp Jordan Pickford should he continue his trajectory. Trafford added: “Obviously I’ve said I’ve always wanted to be England’s number one. And I’m hoping the club will put me to the level which I am [that]. “I’ve got to play as many games as I can and just show and have as much fun as I can. If I have as much fun and work as I can then I’ll be in a good place.” Having played against Leeds twice during his time with Burnley in the Championship, keeping clean sheets in both of his appearances, Trafford - who was on the bench for the now-famous game at the Etihad in November - is aware of the atmosphere surrounding and within the club. He explained: “A few of the lads I have spoken to already say the spirit is incredible. It is really, really good. When you have got that belief and that togetherness, it is going to take you a long way. “It is one amazing club, full of energy and passion – the club and the fans. That goes a really long way because of the energy of the team, the players and the fans contribute to results and performances and improving them. It is just a great place for anyone, let alone myself, to play.”