Leeds United are reportedly looking at Wolves winger Adama Traore once again this summer – a player that Rio Ferdinand once likened to West Ham striker Michail Antonio, in terms of his physical power.
Traore, 26, is set to return to Wolves this summer – but remains in limbo. He rejoined boyhood club Barcelona on a loan-to-buy basis in January, but after failing to score in 17 games, he has returned to Molineux.
He has a contract at Wolves until June 2023, meaning Bruno Lage’s side will have to cash in this summer if they are to bring in some money for him. TeamTalk say Leeds are once again, considering a move for the Spain international.
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It comes with Raphinha continually being linked with a move – Tottenham, Chelsea and Arsenal his latest suitors. Traore was signed by Orta at Middlesbrough in 2016, and a reunion could now be on the cards this time around.
Speaking about Traore last summer, ex-Leeds man Ferdinand told his YouTube channel FIVE that he would be tempted to play the Spaniard as a striker – claiming he could “bully people” like Antonio does for West Ham.
“He’s too inconsistent,” Ferdinand said. “Do you know what I’d do? I might even play him up front. Play him up top all the time and just keep him up front like an Antonio at West Ham. Let him bully people.”
Leeds looking at Traore: Ferdinand likened him to Antonio
Do Leeds need Traore? Well, it depends on Raphinha’s future. Leeds are remaining stubborn in terms of Raphinha’s asking price and it has seemingly put Barcelona off – given the Spanish club’s financial troubles.
Traore will know all about that. But if Raphinha does go, then bringing in a winger is important. However, is Traore the kind of player Marsch will want? Is he going to be good enough to replace Raphinha? Possibly not.
However, if – as TeamTalk say – can be signed for less than £20million, then he is a potential bargain. Leeds should at least consider a move, perhaps using money for Raphinha to sign Traore and another option out wide.
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