A 13-time international set for NPL VIC?

NPL VIC giants Avondale FC appear set to add another high-profile name to their squad.

HIGHPRESS understands former Melbourne Victory defender and 13-time Ivory Coast international Adama Traore is closing in on a move to Avenger Park.

The experienced full-back recently departed Melbourne Victory following the conclusion of the 2025-26 A-League season, bringing an end to his third and longest spell with the club.

Traore left Victory as one of the most recognisable defenders of the A-League era.

The 36-year-old made 128 appearances for the club across all competitions, won the Victory Medal in 2014 and represented Ivory Coast at international level on 13 occasions.

He also won three league titles with Swiss powerhouse FC Basel.

Renowned for his pace, athleticism and consistency, Traore established himself as one of the competition's premier left-backs across a professional career spanning more than a decade.

If completed, the move would represent another significant statement from Avondale as the club continue their pursuit of silverware in NPL VIC and beyond, while it would also see him reunite with ex-Victory star and Socceroo Bruno Fornaroli.

However, HIGHPRESS understands reports linking Socceroo Luke Brattan and Melbourne City attacker Andrew Nabbout with moves to Avondale are not accurate.

Avondale are third in the standings, three points behind leaders Oakleigh Cannons through 16 rounds.