Leeds United could still launch a move for Adama Traore this summer…
What’s the word?
That’s according to transfer insider Dean Jones, who delivered an update to GIVEMESPORT this week.
“They are obviously looking at other players too, but Adama Traore is on the list and the key thing to remember is that Victor Orta loves Adama Traore,” the Eurosport journalist claimed.
“He has wanted him in the door for ages, so that one is definitely still alive.”
The Spain international is back at Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers after a loan spell at boyhood club FC Barcelona during the second half of the 2021/22 campaign. They have not triggered their option to buy clause.
It remains to be seen how much Traore would command, though £18m has been suggested by some reports.
Is Traore a good replacement for Raphinha?
Long admired
With Raphinha likely to depart Elland Road before next month’s return to action, a new winger will certainly be atop Orta and Jesse Marsch’s shopping list.
Given the Spaniard’s long-standing interest in his fellow countryman, it would not be a surprise to see Leeds make their move in the coming weeks.
The 26-year-old has racked up 160 appearances in the English top flight across spells at Wolves, Aston Villa and Middlesbrough, so there’s no denying that he’d add bags of experience, though his end product has always been questionable with only eight goals and 16 assists in that time, via Transfermarkt.
Although, it’s hard to make a case against the eight-cap powerhouse being anything but a threat, given the praise he’s received in recent seasons.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp appears to be a big fan, once describing him as “unplayable.” Reds skipper Jordan Henderson has also echoed similar sentiments, claiming that “he’s difficult to play against” because he’s “very tough, strong, powerful, quick.”
Over in Spain, Barcelona boss Xavi dubbed him a “monster” and a “beast.”
Whether Traore is the right signing or not remains to be seen, but given the continued interest in his services, it does appear as if Raphinha’s days are numbered in west Yorkshire.
Chelsea, Arsenal and the aforementioned LaLiga giants are battling it out for his signature, so it could be a matter of time before we see the Brazilian depart.
Traore could well be a viable target to succeed him, as a result.
AND in other news, Fabrizio Romano drops big Leeds transfer claim…
