Leeds United has reached a verbal agreement with Manchester City to sign goalkeeper James Trafford.
The deal is worth £40 million plus add-ons, making it a club-record transfer for Leeds.
The 23-year-old shot-stopper was initially expected to become Manchester City's primary starter. However, the club later signed Gianluigi Donnarumma, pushing Trafford into a backup role.
Trafford started during City's domestic cup victories but now seeks regular first-team football. Leeds has offered him a long-term contract, with official signatures expected later this week.
The move deals another transfer blow to Premier League rival Newcastle United. Newcastle had targeted Trafford to strengthen their goalkeeping options ahead of the upcoming season.
Newcastle has missed out on multiple targets this summer, including Victor Munoz to Liverpool and Johan Manzambi to Aston Villa.
Following the Trafford miss, Newcastle has shifted focus to Sporting Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, who has a €30 million release clause.
Leeds United's agreement for Trafford was first reported by journalist Fabrizio Romano. The deal highlights Leeds' ambition to secure a top young goalkeeper for their squad.
