Bertrand Traoré has expressed his happiness at joining Sunderland from Ajax in a permanent transfer at the end of the summer window.
The Burkina Faso international has been speaking to Africa Foot, where he said he can’t wait to be at the Stadium of Light.
On deadline day, Sunderland signed both the winger and Brian Brobbey from the Dutch club. Traoré spent four years, between 2013 and 2017, at Chelsea and returned to the UK when Aston Villa signed him in 2020. He was at Villa Park for over three years before they released him in February 2024.
The 29-year-old will start this third spell in England with Sunderland, who have dramatically improved their squad in the summer window, following their return to the Premier League.
Traoré is yet to make to his debut for the Black Cats and is eager to get started with his new club.
“I can’t wait to step onto the Stadium of Light and give my best for the fans. I’m really happy to be joining Sunderland. It’s a huge club, and returning to the Premier League is a privilege. I’ve had some great times here, and I can’t wait to get started,” he said.
The attacker spent eight years in England with Chelsea and Aston Villa. He is confident his experience and meeting familiar faces at Sunderland can help him settle in quickly at the Stadium of Light.
“From afar, I’ve followed the team’s start to the season: the play, the movements, the atmosphere… everything is positive. I’m delighted to be part of this project,” Traoré explained.
“Reuniting with some familiar faces, like Simon Adingra and Brobbey, who also signs today, is a real plus. These connections, combined with my experience in England, will help me settle in quickly.”
