NYCFC Closes In On FC Basel winger Bénie Traoré
- E Lopez
- Jun 21
- 2 min read
Swiss publication Basler Zeitung was reporting that Red Bull New York were the favorites to complete the signing of Ivorian international Bénie Traoré. The 23-year-old Traoré plays primarily as a winger and forward, most commonly operating as a left winger. However, Blick in Switzerland is now reporting that the MLS club involved is actually New York City FC. He is expected to complete a medical examination with the MLS side this weekend.
Traoré is noted for his burst of speed. He is dangerous when running behind the defensive line or breaking quickly on the counterattack. He is also a composed finisher in the box and excels in 1v1 situations.
Traoré has missed the last several days of training with FC Basel, and now it appears that a deal is close to being finalized. It was reported that Borussia Mönchengladbach, Coventry City, Trabzonspor, New York Red Bulls, and RC Lens were the suitors for the players services. New York City FC are now considered the favorites to sign the player, with FC Basel hoping to receive a double-digit million-year fee for Traoré.
Traoré began his career in the youth academy of ASEC Mimosas in Abidjan, before moving to Swedish side BK Hacken in 2021. In three years in Sweden he appeared in 58 matches and scored 25 goals. In July 2023 he joined newly promoted Premier League side Sheffield Wednesday. He appeared in 9 matches with Wednesday, before going on loan to Ligue 1 side Nantes, with which he would make 15 appearances. During July 2024 he was transferred to Swiss Super League side FC Basel. In his first season with the club, Traoré helped lead Basel to a league title, appearing in 40 matches and scoring 14 goals. He appeared in 38 matches and scored 11 times during the most recent campaign. Traoré has also represented the Ivory Coast at the international level, playing at the Africa Cup of Nations and just missing out on the 2026 World Cup roster.
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