Leeds United and AC Milan submit transfer ‘request’ for Serie A star - YEP 3/7/22
The Whites are said to be keen on making a move for the Sassuolo star.
By Mark Carruthers
Leeds United and Serie A giants AC Milan have reportedly
made an enquiry for Sassuolo midfielder Hamed Traore.
The 22-year-old broke through the academy ranks at Empoli
before secure a two-year loan deal to join Sassuolo ahead of the 2019/20
season.
That move was turned into a permanent deal last summer and
Traore went on to enjoy an impressive campaign with I Neroverdi, scoring eight
goals in 32 appearances in all competitions.
His form earned a maiden call-up to the Ivory Coast squad
and Traore made his senior international debut in September last year when he
replaced former Chelsea winger Jeremie Boga in a 2-1 World Cup qualifier win
against Cameroon.
Leeds are believed to have watched his progress over the
last six months but face competition from Serie A champions Milan, who are said
to be keen to keep the attacking midfielder in Italy as they mount a defence of
their title.
Italian news outlet Corriere dello Sport have now carried an
interview with Sassuolo CEO Giovanni Carnevali as he addressed the interest
from the Whites in Traore and speculation other members of their squad could
depart.
He said: “We have received a request (from Leeds), but I
repeat, we will not sell all of them.”
Traore is said to be on the Whites’ shortlist as they
prepare to replace Brazilian star Raphinha.
The winger is the subject of interest from Premier League
rivals Arsenal and Chelsea - but La Liga giants Barcelona have now confirmed
they have held talks over a possible deal.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Sport, Barca president Joan
Laporta said: “We have spoken with Leeds. I don’t think it will offend them (to
say so) because we have spoken personally (with Raphinha) and we are in
communication, but there are also other clubs that want Raphinha and have made
their offers.
“We know that the player would like to come to Barcelona.”
