Leeds United are exploring a summer move for Sassuolo midfielder Hamed Traore, who is also a target for AC Milan.
According to Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds United are among the clubs interested in securing the services of Hamed Traore. The US Sassuolo starlet is a sought-after prospect in the market following his impressive performances in the Serie A, and many now expect him to take the next step in his career.
Leeds have been tracking the progress of Traore for six months. They have been left impressed with what they have seen and are interested in securing his services ahead of the new season, although the Whites are set to face stiff competition from European giants AC Milan.
Formerly of the Empoli youth academy, Traore made his professional breakthrough at Empoli during the 2018/19 campaign, featuring in 32 league matches. After making an impression at the highest level of football, he earned himself a €16 million move to Sassuolo in the summer of 2019.
The relatively big investment from Sassuolo did not go in vain, as the playmaker has since established himself as one of the top players at the club. In 100 competitive appearances for the Serie A club, the 22-year-old has been involved in 28 goals, but he has made a bigger influence with his work rate and creative essence in the middle of the park.
Hamed Traore’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Leeds United targeting him ahead of the new season. The Whites have recently had to part ways with Kalvin Phillips, who has joined Manchester City in a big-money move.
Leeds United have already roped in Marc Roca and are on the verge of signing Tyler Adams as well. But it appears coach Jesse Marsch wants to bring in more creative essence in the middle of the park by bringing in someone like Hamed Traore ahead of the new season.
However, Leeds must be wary of the competition from AC Milan. The Rossoneri can offer Champions League football and there is a possibility the player could prefer to remain in Italy, potentially making them the favourites in the race to sign the Sassuolo starlet this summer.
But perhaps on a more important note, it is Sassuolo who are unlikely to offload Traore, as the Serie A club’s CEO has strongly voiced his desire to keep hold of the star players despite interest from clubs such as Leeds United and Milan, among many others.