When Frank Lampard took over Everton, there were ideas that Lampard’s amicable relationship with Chelsea will allow the Toffees to sign Chelsea youngsters or bring them on loan. The likes of Armando Broja, Levi Colwill, Conor Gallagher and others were touted as players that Lampard will be looking at.
Everton may have to go into the market in search of a new striker if Dominic Calvert-Lewin has to be sold. Richarlison or Calvert-Lewin could be sold in order to generate funds. If the Englishman departs, the Toffees will need a replacement.
Chelsea striker Broja had a wonderful season on loan at Southampton, scoring nine goals in 38 outings for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side. His impressive performances have prompted Southampton to consider signing Broja on a permanent basis.
Apart from Southampton, there are Everton and West Ham remain interested in the striker. West Ham are planning to bring fresh faces for next summer as David Moyes’ side will be playing in UEFA Conference League.
Everton target Armando Broja is open to a West Ham move
While his future at Chelsea remains uncertain, there are teams who are keen to sign him as soon as possible. In fact, the Hammers have made the Albanian their top striker priority this summer. Thomas Tuchel is yet to make a decision on the Cobham academy graduate but a decision will be expected soon.
What will come as a blow to Everton is that Broja’s preference has been revealed. According to the Express Sport journalist Ryan Taylor, Broja is open to consider any offer that comes from West Ham United in the upcoming weeks.
There have been initial talks between Chelsea and West Ham over Broja and a decision over his future will be made by new owner Tedd Boehly and manager Tuchel. The initial plan was to test and evaluate Broja in the pre-season but now West Ham are ready to test Chelsea’s resolve by submitting a bid in the region of £25-£30 million.
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The sources close to the player indicate that the 20 year old will analyze any offer coming from the Hammers. Broja wants to play regular football which might not come easily at Stamford Bridge next season which is why a move away cannot be discarded.
Everton need to up their game and remain in contention for the Albanian if they want to stand any chance of landing him. In Broja, Everton will get a physically astute and dominating striker who can use the combination of his speed and body to get past defenders.
Lampard has an excellent track record of grooming burgeoning youngsters. Broja will have the right counsel and environment to prosper but for that to happen, the Toffees will first have to beat West Ham in the race to sign him.
Will Everton miss out on Armando Broja?