Sheffield United signs Bénie Traoré

In preparation for the upcoming Premier League campaign, Sheffield United has signe Bénie Traoré.

The 20-year-old forward has joined the club on a four-year deal, with United paying an undisclosed fee to Swedish top-flight champions BK Häcken for his services.

Expressing his delight about the new signing, Blades chief Paul Heckingbottom commented, "Bénie is an exciting young player who works really hard and uses his pace to press out of possession as well as using it as a threat by playing on the last man. We see Bénie as someone who has the qualities and the ability to play at the top level."

Traoré's football journey began in his homeland, Ivory Coast, where he spent two years playing for ASEC Mimosas.

In January 2021, he made the move to BK Häcken and quickly made an impact, making his senior debut the following month and scoring his first goal shortly after.

During the 2021/22 Swedish Allsvenskan campaign, Traoré showcased his skills, making 28 appearances in all competitions.

He even had the opportunity to compete in the Europa Conference League, where he faced Aberdeen. In total, Traoré scored three goals for BK Häcken during that season.

Last September, Traoré signed a new deal with BK Häcken, having returned to full fitness after a period on the sidelines. His impressive performances caught the attention of the Ivory Coast national team, and in March 2023, he earned his first international cap for the U23s level.

In the early stages of the 2023/24 Allsvenskan season, Traoré has continued to shine, displaying fine form by scoring an impressive 12 goals in 14 appearances. 

Bénie Traoré is Sheffield United's third summer acquisition. Tunisian international Anis Slimane and French U21s wing-back Yasser Larouci have also joined the club as they strengthen their squad for the challenges ahead.