Everton have emerged as a serious suitor for Newcastle United target Armando Broja, according to The Daily Mail. The Toffees and West Ham United have made official contact with Chelsea over the player.
We previously reported that Newcastle wanted to sign Broja on loan this summer. Having said that, in the last couple of days it’s been reported the Albanian doesn’t want another loan move. So if the Magpies were to land the forward, it would have to be on a permanent deal.
However, there may be plenty of waiting for the clubs when it comes to a decision from the Blues. The same Daily Mail report states Chelsea are still weighing up options plans for the striker. New owner Todd Boehly will likely want to make sure he has sufficient attacking options before letting Broja go.
Ex-Man United player and now pundit Gary Neville has spoken highly of the forward in the past. He labelled him as ‘really exciting’.
Everton targeting Broja gives Newcastle something to think about as they search for Ekitike alternative
Eddie Howe and PIF have been looking to bolster Newcastle’s attacking options this summer. Hugo Ekitike joining the club looked very promising, but the deal now seems dead in the water.
When reports emerged that Newcastle wanted Broja on loan, some fans were keen on the idea. He wouldn’t cost the club anything and has Premier League experience.
The striker showed promise with Southampton on loan last season but doesn’t look the finished article. However, at only 20-years-old, he can get better. It would’ve allowed the Magpies to spend more of their money elsewhere if they could’ve signed him on loan
But with Everton now targeting Broja it gives Newcastle something to think about. A fee to sign the striker would be more likely to entice Chelsea.
Furthermore, it’s been reported previously that the Hammers are willing to offer £30 million for the Chelsea forward. So now the Toon will have decide whether or not they splash the cash on the Albanian international.
When it comes to bolstering Newcastle’s attacking options, they may have to look elsewhere. Everton and West Ham look keen on Broja and the Magpies will need to be careful on how they spend so they don’t break Financial Fair Play rules.
However, if the player is keen on a move to Tyneside then perhaps the added competition might not be a problem for Newcastle. There’s still plenty of time before the transfer window shuts, so if a deal for Broja can’t get over the line they can search elsewhere.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
