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French press have today reported that Traoré was the subject of a rejected bid from Aston Villa.
Words: Regan Foy | @findfoy
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Aston Villa have had a £16,000,000 bid rejected for Olympique Lyonnais forward Betrand Traoré, according to reports in France today.
FootMercato reported the exclusive information this afternoon, stating that Villa had come forward with the offer, which included various add-ons, but Lyon were holding out for a better offer.
The Burkina Faso international, who can play anywhere across a front three, scored one goal and assisted three in 23 league games last season.
At 25-years-old, Traoré has played for Chelsea, Ajax and now Olympique Lyon, playing only 10 Premier League games in his career and being involved in three goals.
This news comes as Aston Villa are reportedly close to tying Milot Rashica, the Werder Bremen winger down to a five-year deal after the transfer has progressed significantly over the last few days.
Traoré has opened the door for his departure from Lyon, stating:
“I am twenty-five and have played at every club I have been at.
“If my situation doesn’t change, I can’t stay on the bench all the time. I’m no longer a teenager.
“I have no time to waste. We will see what will happen.”
FootMercato have also stated that Fulham made an offer for the forward earlier this month, which was also rejected – with Lyon seemingly holding out for a fee of around £23,000,000.
Crystal Palace and Newcastle are also supposedly tracking Traoré, who has two years left on his contract at Lyon.
With an abundance of pace and strong dribbling skills, Traoré could bring something exciting to the wings of Aston Villa – but with Raschica reportedly close and the signing of Ollie Watkins already through the door – it remains to be seen how likely this move will be.
Keep your eyes out for more about Traoré.
