We've been keeping a close eye on Bertrand Traore since 2010, well before he'd even come close to officially signing with the club. Now, almost five years later, the Burkinabe is tearing up the Eredivisie, and looks like he might be ready to make the step up to the very top level. According to Voetbal International's sources, Chelsea agree, and are preparing to bring him up to the first team for next season.
It's hard not to get excited about this, although we should still point out that Traore is yet to officially secure a work permit to play in the Premier League. The 19-year-old has virtually everything you want to see out of a forward, and he's clearly not done improving yet. If he has the right attitude -- and the quotes he gives about Jose Mourinho at the end of that Voetbal International article suggest he does -- he could become a real star for the Blues.
The only question has been whether he'll get a chance or not. If Chelsea can sort out the work permit and give him opportunities, we could be in for a rare treat next season.
If you like goals, Bertrand Traore scored lots of them this season. https://t.co/KoQfUSUndx #CFC #loanwatch
— Chelsea Youth (@chelseayouth) June 4, 2015