A number of sides have been keeping tabs on Chelsea striker Armando Broja who spent the last season on loan at Southampton. Everton boss Frank Lampard admires the Albanian and considers him as one of the transfer targets he’d like to bring to Goodison Park.
The Cobham academy graduate turned heads last season after his impressive loan spell at Southampton, netting nine goals for the Saints in 38 appearances. The 20 year old has returned to Chelsea after the loan and so far there have been no indications about his future. If Thomas Tuchel decides that he will not be a part of the first team plans, the new owners may opt to cash in on the striker.
Everton will need a new striker if Dominic Calvert-Lewin is sold this summer. The possibility of either Richarlison or Calvert-Lewin leaving is high as the Toffees aim to solve the financial crisis and fund a rebuild through player sales.
Perhaps, Broja may be viewed as an ideal backup to Calvert-Lewin if the Englishman ends up staying at Goodison. In that case, Salomon Rondon’s future would be in doubt. Broja is still young and is still polishing his skills and evolving. To burden him with the responsibility of being the prime goal scorer, might do more harm than help.
West Ham ready to make an offer for Everton target Armando Broja
Nonetheless, a number of teams remain interested in Broja. Southampton is keen to bring him back to Saint Mary’s stadium. Italian clubs Atalanta and Napoli are also interested in the 20 year old, as per GOAL. However, West Ham United remains the frontrunners in the race to sign the Chelsea academy product.
In fact, according to Sky Sports, West Ham are in the process to submit a bid for Broja in the region of £30 million. He has been touted as Hammers’ top striker target this summer as David Moyes plans to upgrade the squad.
Just like Calvert-Lewin, Broja excels in the air. He’s a huge threat aerially and commands pace to get past defenders. Standing tall at 6 ft 2 inches, Broja has a dominating physical build allowing him to use his physicality to shield the ball and win body battles.
If Everton are keen on Broja, they may soon have to make a decision as West Ham are the frontrunners in the chase. However, Everton may not be in a position to launch offers before making the appropriate sales. Broja seems to be valued at £30 million and the Toffees cannot fork out such a big fee without making sales or they face a violation of FFP and P&S rules.
Should the Royal Blues sign Armando Broja?