Wolverhampton bank on Bertrand Traoré's experience, free deal

Wolverhampton confirmed on Monday evening the arrival of former Burkinabe international Bertrand Traoré, signed on a free transfer until the end of the 2026‑2027 season. The left winger, 31 years old, joins the Wolves after leaving Sunderland in June.

Free contract and duration

The player has signed a one‑year contract that ties him to the Wolves until the close of the 2026‑2027 campaign, with no transfer fee. This zero‑cost acquisition bolsters the club wage bill without adding to the club budget.

Reasons for the recruitment

The Wolves, relegated at the end of the 2025‑2026 season, are looking to add experience to a squad whose average age is 26.6 years. Traoré’s profile, a right winger with a left foot, matches the staff desire to enrich the attacking side with a player capable of creating and scoring.

Bertrand Traoré is a former Lyon player who has featured for Chelsea, Ajax and Aston Villa, bringing experience in the major European leagues. His spell at Olympique Lyonnais cemented his reputation as an elegant dribbler.

A Burkina Faso international, he has earned 86 caps and scored 21 goals, a record that demonstrates his effectiveness at international level. This experience is considered valuable for mentoring the young Wolves players.

In his last spell with Sunderland, he played 13 matches and scored one goal, but was hampered by physical problems throughout the season. Nevertheless, his level remains attractive for a club in rebuilding.

César Peixoto, the Wolves coach, said: “It is a position we wanted to strengthen, he is good in one‑on‑one situations, strong, left‑footed, can score or assist and is quick in behind runs.” The coach highlights the qualities sought for the upcoming season.

Wolverhampton next match, scheduled for 13 September against Sheffield United, will see him available from kickoff. For Traoré, it is an opportunity to restart his career after a period of inactivity, while the Wolves hope his contribution will help a swift return to the Premier League.