West Ham United are believed to be still pursuing a deal for Chelsea striker Armando Broja, as the search for a new centre-forward addition continues.
What’s the word?
As per Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth, the Hammers are pressing on with negotiations regarding a summer swoop for the 20-year-old marksman, following previous reports that the east Londoners were readying a £30m bid for the Albania international.
Should West Ham sign Broja?
Yes
No
Writing on Twitter about the player’s future, the transfer insider stated: “West Ham United remain in talks with Chelsea over Armando Broja. West Ham want permanent deal. He’s not only high profile striker they’re looking at.”
This follows reports that the 14-cap gem is set to link up with the Blues for their tour of the United States due to the lack of movement regarding a potential departure, having initially been omitted from the travelling party.
Supporters will love it
The £19.8m-rated starlet – who has also been linked with a move to Everton – has become hot property following his impressive form on loan at Premier League outfit Southampton last season, the forward netting nine goals in all competitions, including six in the league.
That tally included a stunning solo goal in the 3-1 win over the Hammers in the FA Cup back in March at St Mary’s, the £8.5k-per-week brute weaving his way through the visiting defence before slotting the ball calmly past a helpless Alphonse Areola.
That moment of magic has provided the London Stadium outfit with just a taste of what the “devastating” ace can do – as described by national team assistant Sergio Porrini – with supporters seemingly desperate for the Slough-born man to join David Moyes’ side.
Not just an impressive finisher – having also scored also 11 goals on loan at Vitesse Arnhem during the 2020/21 campaign – the 6 foot 3 menace also offers a real physical presence in attack, proving himself a real handful for any backline.
His hard-working nature is also emphasised by his impressive defensive record over the past year, the towering forward ranking in the top 14% for aerial duels won and the top 18% for tackles made among those in his position across Europe’s top five leagues.
While still something of a raw talent, Broja would no doubt provide adequate competition and cover for current number nine Michail Antonio, with West Ham having been crying out for a new centre-forward addition over the last 18 months or so.
It looks as if the deal, while protracted, remains in the works, with supporters set to be jubilant at the prospect of finally seeing a new striker come through the door.
AND in other news, Contact made: Moyes can unearth a new sensation as WHU move for “complete” £39m target