According to a big update from journalist Mark Brus, West Ham United have officially agreed on personal terms with Fulham winger Adama Traore. This move sets the stage for the Spaniard to work with his old boss, Nuno Espirito Santo, once again.
West Ham United close in on Adama Traore deal
The Hammers jumped at the chance to lead the race for Traore’s signature. Fulham also seem happy to let him go during this January transfer window. Even though the two sides have sorted out the player’s contract, the deal still has a few logistics to clear. These small issues might push back the official announcement.
Specifically, the East London club need to sell some players first. This helps them stay within Financial Fair Play rules before they bring in anyone new. On top of that, Fulham are currently short-handed at Craven Cottage, which makes the timing tricky.
Marco Silva needs Traore for the upcoming games while starters like Calvin Bassey, Samuel Chukwueze, and Alex Iwobi are away at the Africa Cup of Nations. So, while the transfer looks like a sure thing, fans might have to wait a bit longer while the clubs sort out the schedule and the finances.
Is it a good signing for the Hammers?
Looking at the tactics, bringing Adama Traore back under Nuno Espirito Santo just makes sense for West Ham. Nuno got the most out of Traore when they were both at Wolves.
Back then, the manager used a counter-attacking style that let the winger use his massive pace to tear teams apart. Since West Ham rely on moving the ball quickly from back to front, Traore is a great fit. He gives them an easy way to move the ball up the pitch and take the pressure off the defenders.
Critics often point to the 29-year-old’s poor crossing and lack of goals. However, Nuno knows exactly how to use him. He will likely put him in a role that focuses on his dribbling and doesn’t ask him to do too much in front of the goal.
If the manager can replicate their dynamic Molineux partnership, West Ham sign a player who genuinely scares defenders. His presence alone opens up space for teammates. So, the transfer is a low-risk way to improve the team. If the club can balance the books, they sign a player who already knows exactly what the manager wants.
