England Under-21 boss Lee Carsley has hailed “high level” goalkeeper James Trafford amid links with a move to Turf Moor.

The 20-year-old played a key role as Carsley’s side beat Spain 1-0 in the Euro U21 final on Saturday night, making a heroic double save to keep out a 97th minute penalty and then the rebound.

Trafford went the whole tournament without conceding a goal as the Young Lions won the title for the first time since 1984.

The Manchester City youngster is reportedly set to join the Clarets in a deal that could rise to £19million with add-ons.

Vincent Kompany’s side are preparing for life in the Premier League after clinching the Championship title last term.

Carsley admits he was mindful of how recent speculation might have affected Trafford’s performances but praised the shot stopper’s “top mentality”.

"You always worry – you're mindful when there's transfer things going on in the background and how that affects the players,” he told BBC Sport.

"There's three or four of them that have things going on in the background. The big thing for us is that he understood we were there to support him.

"I think he'll be absolutely fine. Wherever he goes and wherever he plays, he's got a really top mentality.

“He's been outstanding through the tournament. Not conceding a goal is a great achievement. He's been a really important part of us playing out from the back and playing through."

Trafford impressed while on loan at Bolton in League One last term, keeping 22 clean sheets in the league as the Whites finished reached the play-offs.

“James has shown this tournament that he is a high-level goalkeeper who is very consistent,” Carsley added.

“It is fair to say he has been very impressive in training and the lads have been very impressed with his level of consistency. I am sure he will have a big future ahead of him.”