West Ham Edge Closer to Signing 'Unstoppable' Adama Traore from Fulham
West Ham United are reportedly on the verge of completing the signing of Fulham winger Adama Traore, with the former Barcelona forward spotted at the club's training ground this week. This move would mark the Hammers' third acquisition in the January transfer window as manager Nuno Espirito Santo seeks to bolster his squad amid a Premier League relegation battle.
Training Ground Sighting Fuels Transfer Speculation
According to reports from talkSPORT and trusted sources like ExWHUEmployee, Adama Traore was seen at West Ham's training facilities on Tuesday, signalling that a transfer is imminent. The 30-year-old Spaniard, who has fallen out of favour at Fulham, has been linked with a switch to the London Stadium in recent weeks, and this development suggests negotiations are advancing rapidly.
Traore, a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, has extensive experience in English football, having made 262 Premier League appearances across spells with Aston Villa, Wolves, and Fulham. Despite his talent, he has often been utilised as an impact player, a role he might reprise at West Ham to help the team avoid relegation.
Nuno's Reunion with a 'Unique' Talent
West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo previously worked with Traore during his tenure at Wolves, where he famously praised the winger as 'unique worldwide' for his explosive pace and one-on-one abilities. This existing relationship could be key to integrating Traore into the squad quickly, as Nuno looks to harness his strengths to improve the team's attacking options.
The deal is expected to cost West Ham around £4 million, a relatively modest fee for a player with such pedigree. If the Hammers were to drop into the Championship, Traore's experience in the second tier—with 35 appearances, five goals, and 10 assists—could prove invaluable in a potential promotion push.
Transfer Context and Squad Dynamics
This potential signing comes at a crucial time for West Ham, as winger Crysencio Summerville faces speculation about an unexpected departure. Summerville, who has been in fine form with three goals and two assists in his last four games, has attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur, adding urgency to West Ham's pursuit of Traore.
Meanwhile, Fulham have given Traore the green light to leave, with manager Marco Silva's side reportedly set to sign Oscar Bobb from Manchester City in a £40 million deal. Traore's omission from Fulham's matchday squad against Brighton last weekend, only the second time this season, further indicates his imminent exit.
Known for his unstoppable power and speed—a trait highlighted by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola—Traore could provide a much-needed boost to West Ham's frontline. As the January transfer window draws to a close on Monday, this move could be a pivotal moment in the Hammers' season, offering hope to fans in their fight for survival.
