Bolton Wanderers have confirmed the signing of James Trafford on a season-long loan from Manchester City. 

It will be Trafford’s second spell at the UniBol, having initially impressed for the Trotters in goal during the second-half of last season.

This time, though, Bolton have Trafford’s service for the entire 2022/23 campaign, with the club confirming his arrival this afternoon.

Trafford, 19, made 22 appearances for Bolton last season, keeping seven clean sheets in the process, including four in his first four appearances - a club record for Bolton.

Ian Evatt’s side finished the 2021/22 campaign strongly, thanks to the impressive form of Trafford, with focus now switching to a summer of recruitment and building, ahead of an assault on League One’s top-six next season.

Trafford, who is also an England U21 international, adds to their depth in the goalkeeping department.

It’s noted how the goalkeeper will join back up with Bolton after they’ve had a week’s trip in Portugal for a training camp, owing to his recent involvement in the England U21 squad after the domestic season finished.

Can you remember how much Bolton Wanderers paid for these 22 summer signings?

The Verdict 

Trafford is a goalkeeper that’s got enormous potential. He’s already shown to Bolton what he can do and the fact they’ve moved to sign him again underlines the faith they have in his ability.

As an England U21 international and given what we’ve seen already, this is a real coup for Evatt at this stage of the summer.

Supporters are delighted as well and belief will be growing at the UniBol that the club can really challenge in a tough division next season.

Other signings will have to follow, but Trafford is a shrewd piece of business.

Thoughts? Let us know!