Chelsea are reportedly eyeing a surprise summer move to land former Barcelona winger Adama Traore, who is currently contracted to Middlesbrough.
Spanish publication Sport are claiming that Chelsea might spice up the transfer market with a surprise signing. The Blues are being linked with former Barcelona winger Adama Traore, who is currently contracted to Middlesbrough – one of the three relegated teams from the present Premier League campaign.
Middlesbrough’s return to the Premier League was a disaster to say the least, with the club also parting ways with Aitor Karanka, the manager who oversaw their return to the league, in the latter stages of the season before succumbing to relegation. However, Adama Traore’s return was fruitful, at least individually.
The player had a disappointing debut Premier League campaign with Aston Villa. But, the former Barcelona winger redeemed himself with a formidable season at Boro. While the 21-year-old managed just a single assist and no goals in the 27 league appearances for the club, the player was one of the main attacking outlets for Boro.
Middlesbrough forward Adama Traore is close to signing for Chelsea. (Sport) pic.twitter.com/8BK5kZGo68
— ️ (@ContehoIic) June 20, 2017
Betting companies are not offering odds on Adama Traore to West Ham.
He has quality to be fair…we’d just need to unlock the rest of it. pic.twitter.com/oWVEx3jFmY
— West Ham Central (@WestHam_Central) June 15, 2017
At 21, the player proved he has the spark to trouble any side on his day and that might just interest Chelsea enough to make a move for the Spaniard. The Blues were linked previously as well and it looks like they have reignited interest in the player.
Chelsea need to add depth to their squad if they are to compete on all fronts and with Antonio Conte already frustrated with the board’s inability to lock down signings, this could come as a pleasant surprise for the Italian manager, whose relationship with the board is not ideal at the moment.
Adama Traore’s pace and ability to run at defenders will provide a direct and a cutting edge in the attacking third for the club that currently has just Eden Hazard, Pedro and Willian to grace the two positions behind the forward. His move to a more illustrious club may also see him finally take strides towards becoming a full-fledged international for La Roja‘s senior side.
With Middlesbrough relegated, the player will be condemned to Championship football if he doesn’t make a move, something which could prove to be detrimental to the 21-year-old’s progress. It would be interesting to see what fee the player commands and whether Chelsea go ahead with the move.
