West Ham identify Chelsea striker Armando Broja as top target
As if Chelsea didn’t have enough of a striker crisis already, but that is now set to intensify even more. London rivals West Ham United have identified 20-year-old Armando Broja as their priority striker target for the summer.
The Hammers are willing to waste no time either. According to Sky Sports, West Ham are set to bid in the region of £30million for the Albanian sensation.
Broja spent last season on loan at Southampton, scoring nine goals in 38 appearances across all competitions. The Saints have been keen on making his stay at St. Mary’s permanent.
Chelsea are currently working on finalising Romelu Lukaku’s loan exit, meaning that the striker’s role is open once again at Stamford Bridge. Broja was in line to be considered for the role, should he go on to convince Thomas Tuchel during pre-season.
West Ham’s approach now changes the equation for him, should Broja consider regular football a priority. Unless he is able to convince Tuchel, the young striker may only be considered for a squad role next season. Given the Hammers’ intent, they are likely to assure Broja regular starts.
Much like Blues’ former academy star Tino Livramento- the fullback opted to join Southampton last year for regular game-time, instead of wanting to compete with first-choice right-wing-back Reece James.
Should Chelsea allow Broja to leave?
No, and that too to a direct rival, never. Broja is only 20 years old and has already shown what he is capable of on his day. A fiery striker with decent pace and agility- Chelsea have been yearning for a striker in that mould for so many years now.
We have already seen how immensely successful Cobham graduates like Reece James and Mason Mount have gone on to become and today. They seem indispensable to Chelsea. More academy graduates in Conor Gallagher and Billy Gilmour also expected to play a prominent role next season, on the same condition that they impress boss Tuchel.
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There is no reason to not hand Broja that chance. But £30m for a player who is yet to play over a full season for us is a big bid as well. Perhaps they see his talent and understand what he could be worth in the future.
Either way, the Chelsea starlet will now have a serious decision to make – one that could alter the course of his career.