West Ham United have opened talks with Chelsea over striker Armando Broja, according to reports.
The 20-year-old enjoyed a fine season on loan at Southampton, netting six Premier League goals in his first English loan.
Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl previously admitted that he was looking to bring the Albania international back to St Mary’s next season.
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“It has been a very important first season for him," the head coach said previously.
“At this moment it is not easy to negotiate with Chelsea. "There is no question, and it is not surprising that I want him to stay here another year. I know this would be good for him.”
However, it now appears that Southampton face Premier League opposition for the Chelsea forward.
According to the Telegraph, Chelsea will demand £30 million for the forward.
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West Ham are attempting to sign the striker but have not received any promise from the Blues.
The Hammers have been left frustrated by Chelsea failing to quote a price for the 20-year-old.
The change of ownership have slowed down negotiations but Broja is understood to be for sale this summer, handing West Ham a boost.
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Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio supports the reports from England, stating that negotiations with West Ham are ‘ongoing’.
Broja has reportedly become the Irons’ ‘first target’ this summer for the centre forward position.
David Moyes’ side are looking to add to their attacking options, with Michail Antonio the only striking option for the east London side.
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An agreement ‘has not reached or close to happening’, with West Ham still working on a transfer for the striker.
However, Ben Jacobs has reported that Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is still intent on assessing Broja in pre-season and does not want a permanent transfer for the forward until he has done so.
"We have a reason why they are our players. They have quality, mentality.
"They are now out there on their own in different environments, different clubs and proving themselves. Armando is getting better and better," he said when discussing the player last season.
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It remains to be seen as to what the future holds for Broja, who is also attracting interest from Inter and AC Milan.
Romelu Lukaku is set for a Stamford Bridge departure this summer, leaving Kai Havertz as the only striking option along with Michy Batshuayi if Broja departs too.
The Blues would have to dip into the transfer market to replace their outgoing forwards, with a lack of available options.
Topics: Chelsea, Chelsea Transfer News & Rumours, Armando Broja, Southampton, West Ham United, Football, Transfers
Nick Emms