Blues show they want Trafford for keeps!
CITY keeper James Trafford is expected to sign a new contract at the Blues after heading out on loan at Bolton for the second time.
The 19-year-old has returned to the University of Bolton Stadium for the upcoming campaign having spent the second half of last season on loan with Ian Evatt’s side.
The England under-21 international has not travelled to Portugal for the League One club’s training camp. He will link up again with Wanderers next week when they return from the Algarve after being granted some time off due to his recent international duties.
The ambitious young goalkeeper, who is contracted to the Blues until the end of next season, has spoken in the past of his desire to one day be City’s No.1. Gavin Bazunu, who was also on the books at the Etihad, this week moved to Southampton on a permanent deal.
But it is understood Trafford is expected to sign a new contract which will take him beyond the end of his current deal at the Premier League champions.
It puts any potential hopes that Wanderers had of maybe signing Trafford on a free transfer next summer to bed.
Wanderers boss Evatt told M.E.N. Sport: “I think he’s signed a new contract, which is exceptional for him.
“But that’s credit to him that he’s got that contract and also credit for us because we put him in a position where he was able to get that contract.
“I’m happy for him, happy for us, looking forward to working with him again this season.
“We’re becoming a place which is hugely trusted and respected in the north west. So it’s great for us and hopefully we’ll reap the rewards this season with Traff.”