Aston Villa's intention to reject offers for goalkeeper Emi Martinez this summer is set to boost Newcastle United's hopes of signing Manchester City shot-stopper James Trafford, according to reports.
Newcastle's long-standing interest in Trafford
Newcastle have long admired the England international, who is keen to leave the Etihad this summer in search of regular first-team football. The Magpies held positive talks with Trafford's representatives last year when he was at Burnley, but City activated a buy-back clause in his contract to re-sign him from under Newcastle's noses.
However, with the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma at City, Trafford has been forced into a backup role, a situation he is eager to change this summer. Newcastle and Villa are both said to be keen on a deal for the 23-year-old, who will wait until after the World Cup before making any decision on his future.
Villa's stance on Martinez
Villa can offer Champions League football, with speculation over the future of their current No. 1 Martinez again growing. He almost joined Manchester United 12 months ago but remained at Villa Park. Reports in Italy now suggest Juventus are interested in the experienced Argentinian.
However, Birmingham Live reports that Villa will reject offers for the 33-year-old, indicating he will remain as Unai Emery's first-choice keeper next season. That could be good news for Newcastle's hopes of landing Trafford, although Chelsea could yet enter the race.
Newcastle's goalkeeper situation
Newcastle have already signed French youngster Ewen Jaouen this summer, with Odysseas Vlachodimos rejoining Sevilla on loan and Aaron Ramsdale returning to Southampton after his temporary move. John Ruddy and youngster Max Thompson have also left the club.
There has been interest in Nick Pope from Leeds United and Ipswich Town, but the Magpies will want to secure a new first-choice keeper before allowing Pope to depart. Trafford is part of Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the World Cup and has indicated he will review his future once their campaign ends, with the Three Lions facing Norway in Saturday night's quarter-final in Miami.
