Leeds United have sent a massive statement of intent to the rest of English football by securing the services of James Trafford in a deal worth up to £45m. The England international leaves Manchester City just twelve months after returning to the Etihad Stadium in a £27m move from Burnley.

The move to West Yorkshire follows a frustrating period for Trafford under Pep Guardiola. Despite being part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the recent World Cup, where he failed to make a single appearance, the shot-stopper continued to struggle for regular minutes upon his return to Manchester. He made just 17 appearances for City last season, with only four coming in the Premier League, though he played a pivotal role in their Carabao Cup and FA Cup triumphs.

Farke has been desperate to reinforce his goalkeeping department following the departures of both Illan Meslier and Karl Darlow during the current window. While Leeds still have Lucas Perri and Alex Cairns on their books, there was a clear need for a top-tier starter. Perri had fallen out of favour following a difficult 4-3 defeat to Newcastle in January and failed to feature in the top flight thereafter.

The transfer also includes several key clauses that protect Manchester City’s interests in the long term. It is understood that the English club have retained a 20 per cent sell-on clause, ensuring they profit from any future move Trafford might make. Furthermore, the Etihad hierarchy have secured matching rights, meaning they will have first refusal should another club make a bid for the goalkeeper in the future.