Real Sociedad have this afternoon announced the arrival of Malian international right-back Hamari Traoré, who has signed on a free transfer from Rennes. The 31-year-old has joined on a two-year deal, which includes an option for an additional season after that.
The former Rennes captain was the subject of interest from Ligue 1 and beyond as he approached the end of his contract this spring. He notably featured on Barcelona’s shortlist last summer, while Lyon and Real Betis were looking into signing him.
Traoré has instead moved to another La Liga side, with the Basques having qualified for the Champions League group stages for next season after finishing fourth in the league.
The Paris FC youth academy graduate, who has previously turned out for Reims as well, spent six seasons in Brittany. He made 239 appearances in all competitions, and was captain for the last two seasons. Reportedly, the defender was unhappy with the terms of the club’s contract renewal offer, as well as the fact a proposal only came through this spring, when several other players in the squad had their renewals wrapped up much earlier.
GFFN | Raphaël Jucobin
