Barcelona looking to beat rivals for signing of the former academy graduate

According to reports, FC Barcelona have ramped up their pursuit of Adama Traore as they fear of losing their former academy graduate to rivals Real Madrid.

It's been five years since Traore left the Blaugrana, however, his stunning form under Nuno Espirito Santo has  linked him with a big-money move to his boyhood club. 

Barcelona, on the other hand, are well aware of the interest from their arch rivals Real Madrid in the 24-year-old winger and are looking to step up their chase. 

Zinedine Zidane has also set his sights on the Spaniard as he looks to replace Gareth Bale on the flank but Barcelona are desperate not to lose out him to their rivals. 

As per reports in England, however, there has been no formal approach to the Wolves from the Blaugrana as of yet. Barcelona's buy-back option on Traore, who left Spain for Aston Villa in 2015, also expired after he sealed a move to Middlesbrough a year later. 

Since his £18 million move to the Wolves, the winger has flourished, scoring five goals and providing ten assists to his already electrifying pace this season. 

He has also undergone an incredible body transformation during his time in England and has begun attracting attention across Europe. And Traore, who is under contract at Molineux until summer 2023, recently hinted that he could be swayed by a move back to the Nou Camp. 

He told Spanish newspaper AS: “I didn’t leave Barcelona in the best way but I took the decision to leave and I don’t regret it. 

“There were a few problems with the club — some misunderstandings — and so I decided to leave because I wanted to develop as a player. 

“I have no hard feelings towards Barca. So why not? If Real Madrid or Barca came calling, I’d definitely think about it. 

“My plan is to become one of the best players in England, and after that, sure, I’d like to come back.” 

Traore has been a player hard to deal with due to his incredible strength as well as pace. He has absolutely destroyed Manchester City this season while Jurgen Klopp also could not help but admire the player.

Featured Image Credits - Sky Sports