Sources: Newcastle consider a move for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford

Sources suggest that Newcastle have grown more confident that a deal could be reached, with James Trafford's current circumstances at Manchester City giving hope that an agreement might be possible in the next few weeks.

He joined Manchester City from Burnley and was initially patient about his long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.

However, Trafford is believed to be keen to ensure he is playing regular first-team football next season, and there is currently doubt over whether that opportunity will be available to him if he remains.

As a result, the likelihood of a move this summer is increasing, with Newcastle among the clubs ready to investigate the terms of any potential transfer. They are expected to test City's resolve as they try to determine exactly what kind of deal could be on offer.

Manchester City's preference has been to keep Trafford as part of their long-term strategy. Club officials have seen him as a goalkeeper with significant potential and, ideally, would prefer a loan arrangement over a permanent sale if he is set on leaving in search of regular playing time.

However, Newcastle believe that circumstances may have changed enough in the player's mind to create an opportunity.

A key factor in Trafford's thinking is Gianluigi Donnarumma's continued role as number one in City's goalkeeping plans and how he might fit in.

Newcastle are not the only club to admire the goalkeeper. Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa are among the teams also closely monitoring the situation and could still explore a move.

Trafford's preference will be to stay in the Premier League, and his stance is likely to strengthen the position of interested clubs, should City decide they are open to negotiations.