Transfer Story
Recent reports have linked Burkina Faso international, Bertrand Traore with a possible move to West Ham United. Slaven Bilic is apparently trying to bolster his forward line and the inclusion of the 21-year-old is seen as a viable option.
The Chelsea player had an impressive season during his loan spell with Dutch club, Ajax and is now destined to return to Stamford Bridge as his term has come to an end with the Eredivisie runners-up.
Unsure of much first team action with the London Blues, the player is open to suitable offers and could be swayed away from the Premier League winners this summer. The player is currently tied to Chelsea FC till 2019 and a price of £17m is set to be enough to prise away the individual.
Let’s take a look at the stats of the 21-year-old and see for ourselves the quality he would bring to the Hammers.
Player Stats
The player has managed to score 14 times in 43 appearances in the past season. Surely not shy in front of goal, the youngster could prove to be highly effective for Bilic.
The 21-year-old also has an impressive pass success rate of 79,1% and an average of 3.4 shots on target per game. Comfortable in playing as a forward as well as in the right midfield and wing, the player might be able to provide Bilic with the added edge that the Croatian had missed all throughout last season. (Stats via WhoScored )
What’ll he offer to the club?
West Ham’s entire lineup of forwards have been able to provide with 21 goals, less than half of the season’s total tally 47 which showcases the poor lack of finishing skills and creativity from Bilic’s forward line-up. Having Traore might just be the key that provides Bilic with the added spark and flair that the Hammers had been missing throughout.
Having the vision to play it early or even hold the ball to help build up play, the player has been on scintillating form while playing for Ajax and if he manages to bring his skills and talent to the London Stadium, it would be a good piece of business nonetheless for the Hammers.
Worth the Money?
Being valued at £17m, it is no doubt a bargain buy without any question for West Ham United. Having endured a lacklustre season full of misfires and missed chances, Bilic would probably rue his luck if he is unable to sign the talisman from Stamford Bridge.
Post the departure of Payet from the London Stadium, Bilic has had it tough in infusing creativity and spark in the final third.
Hence, the addition of Traore seems a no-brainer for the Hammers.
