In a move that would send shockwaves through the Premier League, Manchester City are reportedly orchestrating an audacious double raid for two of Europe's most coveted goalkeepers.
According to exclusive reports, the reigning champions have set their sights on Burnley and England starlet James Trafford, alongside a sensational swoop for Paris Saint-Germain's Italian colossus, Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Pep's Goalkeeping Revolution
This ambitious plan signals a potential seismic shift in Pep Guardiola's squad dynamics. The future of current number one Ederson has been the subject of intense speculation, with Saudi Arabian clubs circling. Backup 'keeper Stefan Ortega is also attracting interest from other top-flight sides, potentially creating two vacant spots between the sticks at the Etihad.
The club's hierarchy, led by Director of Football Txiki Begiristain, is not just looking for replacements; they are targeting a long-term heir and a world-class immediate contender.
The Homegrown Hero: James Trafford
At the heart of City's strategy is a move to bring academy graduate James Trafford back to the club. The 21-year-old, who left City for Burnley in a £19 million deal just last summer, has impressed despite the Clarets' relegation battle.
His composure and ball-playing ability are seen as a perfect fit for Guardiola's system. Securing his signature would represent a major coup and a statement of intent to re-invest in top English talent.
The Euro 2020 Winner: Gianluigi Donnarumma
In a parallel pursuit, City are also exploring a deal for Euro 2020 champion Gianluigi Donnarumma. The 25-year-old Italian international has experienced a mixed spell at PSG, often sharing duties with Keylor Navas.
The prospect of a fresh challenge in the Premier League could be tempting for Donnarumma, whose commanding presence and shot-stopping prowess are undoubted. His potential availability makes him an incredibly attractive option for a club of City's stature.
A Transfer Tug-of-War
This dual approach is a masterclass in transfer strategy, covering all bases. While Trafford represents the promising future, Donnarumma offers proven, elite-level experience.
Pulling off both deals would be a monumental task, but it underscores the relentless ambition at Manchester City to dominate both domestically and in Europe for years to come. The goalkeeping position, often the most stable, is now the centre of the most intriguing transfer saga of the summer.
