Bertrand Traore targets English return as free-agent talks continue

Bertrand Traore is considering his next move after leaving Sunderland, with the Burkina Faso captain having turned down several offers from the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, according to exclusive information from Africa Top Sports.

The 30-year-old remains without a club and is continuing to assess his options. Traore’s preference is to stay in England, where clubs from both the Championship and Premier League are understood to be in discussions with him over a possible contract.

His decision leaves the experienced forward weighing opportunities in English football rather than accepting proposals from elsewhere in the Middle East. No agreement has yet been reached, but talks with potential new clubs are continuing.

Traore has built a career across several major European leagues and has considerable experience of playing at the highest level. He began his development in France before joining the highly regarded academy at Chelsea.

He then made progress through successful loan spells at Vitesse Arnhem and Ajax Amsterdam. Those periods gave him valuable first-team experience before he moved on to establish himself at Olympique Lyonnais and Aston Villa.

At both clubs, Traore played in environments associated with European elite football. His time at Aston Villa also brought him further experience in the Premier League, while his wider career has included spells in Turkey, Spain and the Netherlands.

Although injuries have slowed his progress slightly in recent seasons, Traore has remained competitive while moving between demanding leagues. His time in England with Sunderland most recently added to that experience, but his departure has left him searching for a new club as a free agent.

The Burkina Faso international’s background, versatility and knowledge of different football cultures are expected to strengthen his appeal to prospective suitors. His leadership qualities and experience at the top level are also regarded as significant advantages as he considers the next stage of his career.

Traore’s status as captain of the Etalons further underlines the responsibility he has carried throughout his career. With several English clubs reportedly exploring a deal, he could now remain in the country rather than take up one of the offers received from the Middle East or Saudi Arabia.

For the moment, the forward is continuing to examine the available opportunities. His priority is clear: to find a new challenge in England after his departure from Sunderland, with Championship and Premier League clubs both involved in the discussions.