Malian youth international Mahamadou Traoré is set to take a significant step in his early career after being invited to Denmark for a trial that could open the door to his first professional contract.
Randers FC have confirmed their interest in the highly rated midfielder, with the Danish Superliga club offering Traoré the opportunity to train and be assessed in the coming weeks.
The invitation reflects growing European attention around a player who has emerged as one of Mali’s most promising prospects at youth level.
The 17-year-old is expected to spend a period in Denmark as part of the evaluation process, during which Randers’ coaching staff will closely monitor his adaptation, technical qualities and tactical understanding.
Should the trial prove successful, it could lead to a professional agreement, marking Traoré’s first move into European football.
Traoré’s reputation has risen sharply following a series of standout performances on the international stage.
He was one of the revelations of the Africa Cup of Nations at youth level and went on to confirm his potential during the 2025 U17 World Cup.
Those tournaments placed him firmly on the radar of recruiters, who were drawn to his composure, work rate and maturity despite his age.
Developed at the Football Players Dreams Academy in Bamako, Traoré is seen as a product of a system increasingly recognised for producing technically sound and tactically aware midfielders.
His progress through the academy has been steady, and his transition to international football with Mali’s U17 side has only accelerated interest in his profile.
Several European clubs have already been linked with the teenager.
Spanish side Villarreal and France’s AS Monaco are among those reported to have followed his development closely.
However, Randers appear to have moved decisively, positioning themselves as a serious contender to secure his signature by offering him a concrete pathway through a trial.
For the Danish club, the move fits a familiar strategy of identifying and developing young talent before integrating them into the first team.
For Traoré, the trial represents both an opportunity and a challenge, as he looks to adapt to a new footballing environment far from Bamako.
As he prepares for his stay in Denmark, expectations remain measured but optimistic.
A successful trial would not only mark a personal milestone for Traoré, but also underline Mali’s growing influence in youth football and the continued appeal of its academies to European clubs seeking the next generation of talent.
