Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas confirms 'advanced talks' for Chelsea forward Bertrand Traore

In demand | Bertrand Traore (centre) is wanted by Lyon
AFP/Getty Images
Vaishali Bhardwaj16 June 2017

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has admitted he "absolutely" wants to sign Chelsea forward Bertrand Traore, and confirmed talks have reached an advanced stage about bringing the 21-year-old from London to France this summer.

Traore spent last season on loan at Ajax where he scored 14 goals in all competitions for the Dutch side - including two against Lyon in the Europa League semi-final first leg clash in May.

The Burkina Faso international also impressed the previous season at Chelsea where he netted four goals in 16 appearances after then-interim manager Guus Hiddink showed his faith in the forward and played him up front for the Blues.

However, Traore's long-term future at Chelsea remains in question but Lyon president Aulas has revealed the French side want to sign the 21-year-old this summer - although he expects fierce competition for his signature from other clubs.

Speaking at a press conference to unveil new signing Fernando Marcal, Aulas said: "We want to bring Bertrand Traore to the club.

"There are advanced talks there, but many clubs are interested.

"We absolutely want to do the deal."

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