FC Basel forward Bénie Traoré is edging closer to a move away from Switzerland, with Major League Soccer side New York Red Bulls emerging as the leading contenders for his signature.
The 23-year-old Ivory Coast international is currently in advanced discussions over a transfer abroad, with Basel confirming he has been granted permission to leave training in order to negotiate with another club.
The situation points strongly towards an imminent departure for the striker, who only joined Basel in 2024 but has quickly become an important attacking option for the Swiss side.
According to the club, Traoré’s absence from recent training sessions is directly linked to ongoing transfer talks.
Basel confirmed that the player has been allowed temporary leave while discussions continue, effectively signalling that a move is now seriously being considered by all parties.
Reports suggest that a number of clubs had shown interest in the forward, with Borussia Mönchengladbach, Coventry City, Trabzonspor, RC Lens and New York Red Bulls all previously linked with him.
However, the American side are now believed to be in the strongest position to complete a deal.
Basel are reportedly expecting a significant fee for the player, with the club targeting a double-digit million euro transfer package if the deal goes through.
That valuation reflects both his potential and his growing importance since arriving in Switzerland.
Traoré has enjoyed a steady rise since joining Basel, making an immediate impact with his attacking output.
In his first season he scored 11 goals in 39 appearances, underlining his ability to adapt quickly to a new environment and contribute at senior level.
His development has continued into the following campaign, where he registered 9 goals and 3 assists in 30 domestic league matches, further enhancing his reputation as one of the club’s key attacking threats. He has also earned 7 international caps for Ivory Coast, adding to his profile on the global stage.
A move to MLS would mark a new chapter in his career, taking him from European football into a league that continues to grow in stature and investment.
For many African players, the United States has become an increasingly attractive destination, offering both competitive football and a platform with rising global visibility.
Traoré’s potential switch also comes at a time of transition for Basel, who are set to lose another key member of their recent squad following the departure of Dominik Schmid.
The Swiss club, therefore, face a summer of significant change as they reshape their squad after recent domestic success.
While the deal is not yet finalised, all indications suggest momentum is building towards a transfer, with New York Red Bulls now positioned as favourites to secure the Ivorian forward’s services.
