In a recent report, Foot Mercato mentioned that Barcelona are eyeing a move for Stade Rennais full-back Hamari Traore. It has been revealed that the Catalan giants are showing interest in recruiting the Rennes skipper before the end of this summer transfer window.
Traore’s Excellent Form In Ligue 1 Last Season
Traore enjoyed a decent campaign in French football recently as he put in a handful of productive displays on the right flank. The 30-year-old registered three goals and 11 assists in 42 matches for the French club last season on all fronts.
The Mali talent was a positive influence at both ends of the field based on his average of 1.9 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 2.0 clearances, 0.9 shots and 1.0 key passes per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He was even accurate when distributing the ball from the right-wing, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 84.9% in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract with Rennes is set to run out next summer which could open the door for Barca to land him on a cut-price deal before the end of this month.
What Will Traore Add To Barcelona Boss Xavi’s Team?
Traore is a solid tackler of the ball and can make a few timely interceptions for his team at the back. He usually clears the danger when needed and can strike the ball well from long range.
The Mali sensation has developed a healthy habit of creating some inviting chances for his teammates in the final third. He is even an accurate passer of the ball which makes him a good fit for Xavi’s brand of football at the Nou Camp.
We can expect Traore to add more quality to Barcelona‘s starting XI. He is good enough to become a regular starter at the Catalan club. Therefore, it makes sense for Barca to launch a move for him during this summer transfer window. The Mail international is primarily a right-back but can even serve as a left-back or play as a right-sided winger if his manager asks him to do so.
At 30, Traore will be a good short-term fix for Xavi’s right-back problems. At the very least, he will provide some healthy competition for Sergi Roberto and Ronald Araujo in the race to secure the right-back spot in Barca’s first team. With all things considered, the Catalan giants should think about going all out in their attempts to secure the services of the Ligue 1 right-back this month.
