Newcastle hit stumbling block in pursuit of £16m 21-year-old thanks to Manchester City complication

When it comes to Newcastle United transfer dealings nothing is ever straight-forward.

The Magpies have reportedly tabled a £16million bid for England goalkeeper James Trafford who is currently on the books at relegated Burnley.

It's believed by The Northern Echo a significant portion of that deal would be dependent on certain clauses being met.

Burnley are holding out for a deal closer to £20million and one that would represent the bulk of the money being paid up front.

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Manchester City will receive 20% of any transfer fee

It's understood that a big part of the disparity in value comes down to the 20% sell-on clause that Manchester City inserted into the deal when Trafford joined the Clarets last summer for £19million.

Burnley are obviously keen to guard against taking a double hit on the man they signed just 12 months ago with Newcastle already offering less than they paid for him before Man City take their 20%.

It's believed that terms between Newcastle and Trafford won't be an issue so it all comes down to whether the two clubs can agree a fee and deal structure.

Newcastle aren't putting all their eggs in one basket

As reported this afternoon, Newcastle still have alternatives in mind with Juan Musso apparently now added to the list along with the other names we've seen floating around for weeks now.

Loris Karius has already left the club and speculation over Martin Dubravka's Newcastle future continues to suggest his days are numbered too, so it now remains to be seen whether Eddie Howe is planning to replace both outgoing goalkeepers, or if he feels one is enough.

Whatever the outcome, we expect that Nick Pope will remain Howe's first-choice heading into the next season with the incoming 'keeper to challenge him for that number 1 spot.