West Ham have opened discussions with Bournemouth over a possible deal for Hamed Junior Traore, according to reports from West Ham Zone. The 24-year-old Ivorian midfielder, who spent last season on loan in Ligue 1, is being considered as a summer target under new manager Graham Potter.
Traore Back on West Ham’s Radar
West Ham Zone reports that the club have made an approach for Traore, who is also believed to be open to the move. Sources close to the player say there are no major injury concerns, and the midfielder is expected to be available for transfer.
This isn’t the first time the Hammers have looked at Traore. They previously tracked him in 2022 while he was at Sassuolo. Now, with Potter reviewing his midfield options, West Ham seem ready to return to that interest.
Price Set Around £17m
According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, Bournemouth are seeking a fee in the region of £17 million for the player. Even so, West Ham reportedly consider that price reasonable given Traore’s recent form and top-level experience.
Fitness doesn’t seem to be a worry either. Dr Rajpal Brar told West Ham Zone the Ivorian played 26 league matches last season and shouldn’t face any issues in a medical. While there may be some review of his past hamstring problems and spells of illness, Brar played down the chance of any deal falling through over health concerns.
Strong Spell in France Raises Profile Again
Traore spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Auxerre, where he scored 10 goals and added two assists in just 26 Ligue 1 appearances. He played regularly, clocking over 2,100 minutes, and featured in a range of attacking roles, from wide areas to central positions.
That kind of versatility is said to be particularly appealing to Potter, who’s weighing up attacking options as questions linger over Lucas Paquetá’s future.
European Clubs Also Showing Interest
Traore’s showings haven’t gone unnoticed. Aouna also reported interest from Serie A sides Bologna and Atalanta, along with French club Nice.
West Ham’s pitch will likely focus on both Premier League familiarity and the chance to play under a new manager building a fresh squad. Whether they can move fast enough to land Traore ahead of other suitors remains to be seen.
