After only a few days at Chelsea’s training camp, Armando Broja has already left. He is flying to England, reportedly to recover from a minor foot ailment, but it could be to complete his transfer to West Ham United.
Everton and Newcastle United were said to be interested as well but it appears that the 20-year-old is facing full-stop hammer time. And whereas, last week a loan was anticipated for that transfer, it now appears to be a permanent one with potential future considerations that may or may not involve a buyback clause.
David Ornstein of The Athletic has reported that West Ham has made an “enhanced” £30 million plus add-on offer (up £5 million) and that they are “very close” to completing the transaction because they have already agreed to personal terms with the player.
Other reports differ on the latter aspect, but if the two clubs can come to an agreement, it’s unlikely that this will be anything more than a quick formality to overcome.
🚨 West Ham close to agreement with Chelsea for Armando Broja. Currently working towards permanent. Personal terms in place but contract length undetermined. Deal didn’t develop at #CFC request but his wish for regular 1st team starts @TheAthleticUK #WHUFC https://t.co/iAan17qWU4
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 18, 2022
Broja was initially left out of Chelsea’s roster for their trip to the United States, but he last week travelled out to join his Blues colleagues.
West Ham United Lead the Race For Broja
He did not play in the exhibition match against Club America on Saturday, and he is now returning to the UK to decide on his future. The Hammers are in the lead in the competition to recruit Broja, and a deal on the individual terms is close to being reached.
West Ham and Sassuolo are still in communication for a transfer of Gianluca Scamacca, their other striker option. Although it is improbable, they have not ruled out the potential that both strikers will travel to London should Chelsea decide to permit Broja to leave Stamford Bridge.
Slough-born Broja, who represents Albania at the international level, has been with Chelsea since 2009 but has only made one senior appearance for them.
The Hammers have already signed Nayef Aguerd, Alphonse Areola and Flynn Downes this summer. Chelsea, on the other hand, have bolstered their forward line by signing Raheem Sterling from Manchester City for £47.5million which could see them move Broja on for the right price.