Aston Villa are reportedly positioning themselves in the race to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford this summer, as Premier League clubs begin assessing their options between the posts.

According to TEAMtalk, Villa are among several sides monitoring the 23-year-old, whose limited game time this season has sparked renewed speculation about his future.

With Newcastle United also maintaining interest, having previously explored a move in January, Trafford could find himself at the centre of a competitive transfer battle once the window opens.

James Trafford has struggled for playing time at Man City

Trafford’s situation at Manchester City has been shaped largely by competition.

The English goalkeeper has found himself playing a supporting role behind Gianluigi Donnarumma, restricting him to just 11 appearances across all competitions this campaign.

While those outings have demonstrated his reflexes and distribution, they have not been sufficient to establish him as a regular starter.

For a goalkeeper entering a critical stage of his development, consistent first-team minutes are vital.

City’s depth in the goalkeeping department has historically limited opportunities for emerging players. The club’s ambition to compete on multiple fronts leaves little margin for experimentation.

Why Aston Villa and Newcastle are interested

James Trafford in action for Manchester City (Photo...