Transfer market: Bertrand Traoré leaves Sunderland

The free stallion is now unattached

Africa Today at 10:37

The relationship between Bertrand Traoré andSunderland has come to an end. The English club chose not to activate the option to extend the Burkinabé winger’s contract for another year. Thus ends the adventure of the Black Cats’ wingman after a season marred by injuries.

Bertrand Traoré endured an extremely difficult season. He arrived in September 2025 from Ajax Amsterdam, but the Stallions’ captain struggled with injuries, making just 12 appearances and scoring only one goal for the Black Cats. His limited minutes on the pitch denied him the chance to prove himself in the Premier League.

🚨 Sunderland confirm they are in talks with Lutsharel Geertruida over making his loan deal from RB Leipzig permanent.
💴 The club have the option to purchase the defender for £18m.
❌ Dennis Cirkin, Dan Neil and Niall Huggins all leave the club after their contracts expired.… pic.twitter.com/2zVrQdLAG4
— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) June 10, 2026

On June 10, Sunderland announced their squad list for next season, and Bertrand Traoré’s name was nowhere to be found. The club also thanked the Burkinabé international in a post for his contribution to the team.

At 30, the former Lyon and Aston Villa player is now a free agent, searching for a new club this summer. The Stallion’s experience and talent remain his key strengths, which could help him reignite his career elsewhere.