‘Sunderland have transfer edge’ in race for Traore
Sunderland are seemingly leading the race for Bournemouth’s Hamed Traore.
The Mackems are already set to sign Habib Diarra as they look to have beaten off Premier League competition for the Senegal international.
Stadium of Light sporting director Kristjaan Speakman is credited with interest in Traore, who has been looked at by multiple European clubs.
Sunderland’s Premier League status enough to convince Traore
Traore, 25, spent last season on loan with French Ligue 1 side Auxerre, where he caught the eye scoring 10 goals and providing two assists in all competitions.
Bournemouth are reportedly looking to move the attacking midfielder on this summer and have already rejected a £10million offer.
According to Corriere dello Sport (30 June), Fiorentina, Parma, and Marseille are monitoring the Ivory Coast international’s situation, but Sunderland appear to have the edge.
Regis Le Bris’ side’s Premier League status and spending power this summer has made the Black Cats favourite for the Ivorian, the Italian publication has said.
Sunderland’s promotion back to the Premier League for the first time in eight years has helped their financial situation, along with the sale of Jude Bellingham.
Alongside the significant £30m spent on Diarra, the Mackems are set to sign experienced full-back Reinildo on a free transfer from Atlético Madrid.
The signing of Traore would bring plenty of experience to the Stadium of Light.
Traore joined the Cherries in 2023 after impressing for Italian side Sassuolo.
After struggling for gametime on the South Coast, the midfielder failed to make an impression on loan at Napoli, before finding his feet again in France.
Sunderland utilising French connections well
Regis Le Bris is using his homeland to full effect this summer, and it can save them from any threat of relegation this season.
| Season | Minutes played | Goal contributions |
| 2024/25 | 2108 | 12 |
| 2023/24 | 664′ | 1 |
The Mackems are still in the race for Marcin Bulka from Nice, though a move to Saudi Arabia is looking more likely.
Now, Traore could prove a good fit after his recent form in France, combined with his existing Premier League contract status at Bournemouth.
Sunderland would again have to beat off interest from elsewhere, but after winning the race for Diarra, the Mackems have shown they have credibility in the transfer window.