Wolves boss Gary O'Neil breaks silence over failed loan move for Chelsea's Armando Broja
Chelsea striker Armando Broja and co-owner Todd Boehly are still in talks about the future of the Albanian striker at Stamford Bridge, reports the Athletic (subscription required). This is despite growing interest from rival clubs who are willing to spend big money on the striker this summer.
The 20-year-old centre-forward is wanted by a host of clubs including the likes of West Ham United, Newcastle United, Everton and Southampton. The Blues, and especially coach Thomas Tuchel, are said to be admirers of Broja, who is a Blue academy product.
Broja spent last season on loan at Southampton where he got his first full Premier League experience. The Albanian did not disappoint as he made 38 appearances for the Saints in all competitions, scoring 9 goals and assisting 1 in the process. He played in all of the FA Cup games for them, helping them reach the quarter-finals of the competition.
Tuchel wants to assess the player during pre-season, but Broja wants to be part of the squad next campaign or he could look at other options.
Broja emerged as one of the best young strikers in the Premier League last season. His representatives are still talking with the club regarding his situation, while Broja wants to know his role if he is to be a part of the squad. The Blues failed to find the back of the net last season at times, and Tuchel will be aware of that problem.
Romelu Lukaku was bought in to help with that problem. But after a disappointing season, he has been loaned back to Inter Milan. This leaves Timo Werner as the only preferred out-and-out striker in the team.
The German has struggled to find the back of the net during his time at Chelsea. Michy Batshuayi has returned from his loan spell at Besiktas but is not a preferred option- nor should he be given his form over the past several seasons.
The Blues have been in the market for an attacker, having been linked to Cristiano Ronaldo, Raheem Sterling and Raphinha. Adding another attacker would push Broja down the pecking order, something which the player does not want.
He proved his potential and quality in the Premier League last season, and Tuchel could use him this season at least as a backup option, if not the main striker. The Albanian forward is just 20 years old and still has a lot to learn.
If Chelsea can’t offer him a good position for next season, they should try their best to send him on a loan rather than a permanent transfer. He has the potential to become the future leader of the frontline for the Blues.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the player. However, Blues fans will hope that he stays with the club and shows his true potential with them, rather than elsewhere. We cannot make the same mistake as we did with Tammy Abraham last summer.
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