Fabrizio Romano has dropped an update on the future of reported West Ham United transfer target Armando Broja.
What’s the latest?
In a recent post on Twitter, the Italian journalist revealed that, despite earlier reports suggesting that West Ham were closing in on a £30m deal for the 20-year-old this summer, Chelsea are now fighting to keep the centre-forward at Stamford Bridge – with Thomas Tuchel believed to be a huge admirer of the Albania international.
In his tweet, the transfer insider said: “Chelsea and West Ham are still in direct negotiations for Armando Broja deal. Chelsea now fighting to keep Armando, Tuchel is a big fan – wants him to stay. West Ham are still pushing. Been told no way for a loan, only a permanent move is being discussed.”
Supporters will be gutted
Considering just how exciting a prospect Broja undoubtedly is, in addition to it previously being reported that Chelsea were willing to let the striker leave the club this summer, Romano’s latest update on the future of the youngster is sure to have left the London Stadium faithful gutted.
Who would be the better signing for West Ham?
Broja
Scamacca
Indeed, the £19.8m-rated forward first caught the eye during his time spent in the Chelsea academy, bagging 16 goals over 35 appearances for the U18s, scoring three goals in 13 outings for the U23s and netting 11 goals over 34 outings fixtures a loan spell at Vitesse Arnhem – one of the Premier League side’s feeder clubs.
The £8.5k-per-week talent then proved he is more than capable of making the step up to Premier League football during a season-long loan at Southampton last term, scoring nine goals and providing one assist over 38 appearances for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side – form that clearly convinced David Moyes of the 20-year-old’s ability and potential for future growth.
However, with Romano claiming that Tuchel is now hoping to keep hold of the 14-cap international ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, it looks as if Rob Newman will seriously have his work cut out in convincing the Blues to part with one of their most promising talents this summer – something that is sure to come as a gutting blow to the Hammers.
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