Newcastle United look set to miss out on Armando Broja this summer, with West Ham close to a deal.
The Chelsea youngster has been one of our top targets ever since the Hugo Ekitike deal collapsed, as Eddie Howe eyes a forward.
A move for Broja certainly made a lot of sense given the year he had at Southampton, but the main issue was always the competition.
Everton have also been linked with the Albania international, but it appears that West Ham are going to come out on top.
Romano states that West Ham are ‘close’ to agreeing Broja deal
The past weekend has brought progress on a move for Broja to join West Ham, despite the striker only just travelling to America to link up with his Chelsea teammates.
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That journey has proven to be an absolute waste of time, with the 20-year-old now reportedly on his way back to England.
While Toon fans may hope it is to conclude a move to St James’ Park, it is actually the Hammers faithful who will be smiling.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on the situation, and posted on Twitter about how close David Moyes is to getting his man.
“Armando Broja will clarify his future very soon,” he wrote.
“West Ham are really close to reaching an agreement with Broja on personal terms, talks ongoing with Chelsea.”
Blow for Newcastle
The Daily Mail reported on Sunday that Broja will be joining West Ham on loan. That makes news of Newcastle missing out an even bigger blow.
The beauty of a Broja loan deal was that it would allow us to spend more money elsewhere on someone like Moussa Diaby. However, it was then reported that the Chelsea ace didn’t want another temporary switch.
Alas, it looks like he is going out on loan, but to West Ham. A move to the London Stadium does make sense though.
He won’t need to relocate, while he will also get the chance to play in Europe for a team that has really kicked on over the past two years.
Our loss is their gain, and Howe will now need to look for an alternative to the Hugo Ekitike alternative.