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Manchester City to offload Stefan Ortega after re-signing James Trafford for €34 million

Manchester City to offload Stefan Ortega after re-signing James Trafford for €34 million

Manchester City has made backup goalkeeper Stefan Ortega available for transfer following the return of James Trafford from Burnley in a deal worth approximately €34 million (converted from R$200 million). According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the club is preparing for a reshuffle in the goalkeeper department as part of Pep Guardiola’s ongoing squad overhaul.

The decision signals a changing of the guard at the Etihad, with Trafford, 22, expected to take on a prominent role in the coming season. Guardiola reportedly views the young shot-stopper as a long-term asset, having developed through City’s youth ranks before impressing during loan spells at Accrington Stanley, Bolton, and most recently, Burnley.

Trafford played 45 matches in the 2024–25 Championship campaign, keeping an impressive 29 clean sheets and helping Burnley secure promotion back to the Premier League.

Ortega Expected to Exit

Stefan Ortega, who has served primarily as Ederson’s backup since arriving from Arminia Bielefeld, is now surplus to requirements. City has not yet formalized a transfer but has informed the market that Ortega is available, likely for a permanent move.

Uncertainty Around Ederson

Meanwhile, Ederson’s future remains unresolved. The Brazilian international, once Guardiola’s undisputed No. 1, experienced a dip in form last season and has since been linked with a move to Galatasaray. While nothing has been finalized, reports suggest Ederson is open to the Turkish club’s proposal.

Should Ederson also leave, Manchester City may rely on a new goalkeeper hierarchy led by Trafford, who is increasingly seen as Guardiola’s preferred choice moving forward.

The shake-up is part of a broader evolution within the City squad ahead of the 2025–26 season, with departures and new arrivals expected across multiple positions.

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