Armando Broja Joins Chelsea Squad In Los Angeles After Sharing Raheem Sterling Flight

Armando Broja and Raheem Sterling took the same flight to Los Angeles on Tuesday as they prepare to join the rest of the Chelsea squad for their pre-season schedule, according to reports.

The Blues flew to the United States on Saturday afternoon to begin their packed schedule ahead of the new season, with the aforementioned duo joining them a few days later.

Broja has returned from his loan spell at Southampton, where he impressed in the previous campaign, and is set to take part in pre-season despite the heavy interest in him this summer.

Chelsea are set to announce their first signing of the summer too, with Sterling making the switch from Manchester City after seven years at the club.

Sunday will see the Blues take part in their first competitive fixture of the summer when they face Club America, with two additions ready to get underway.

Raheem Sterling is set to be announced as Chelsea's first signing of the summer. (Alamy)

According to the Evening Standard, Broja and Sterling took the same private jet to Los Angeles to group up with the rest of the squad.

The former is the subject of a lot of transfer speculation this summer, with the likes of Newcastle United and Everton keen on signing him in the window in preparation for the new campaign.

West Ham are also interested in a move, but are yet to make a formal offer.

Co-owner Todd Boehly is said to have been involved in ‘half a dozen meetings’ about what to do with the Albanian striker.

It was revealed a few weeks ago that boss Thomas Tuchel wants to use pre-season to assess the 20-year-old, who scored nine goals for the Saints last season in his second loan spell away from Stamford Bridge.

His future is yet to be decided, but the next couple of weeks could be crucial in deciding whether he stays at the club or moves on to pastures new.

While the club prepare to announce Sterling as their first signing of the summer in a deal worth around £47.5 million, the World Champions are also looking to strengthen their defensive options.

Chelsea are thought to be closing in on a deal for Napoli centre-back Kalidou Koulibaly, who has been a long-term target for the club.

It is believed that the Senegal international has agreed personal terms with the Blues, and will join on a five-year deal worth around £7 million-a-year plus bonuses.

Reports on Tuesday revealed the 31-year-old’s own update on the move when he said: I'll confirm that later, but it's on the right track.”