West Ham United are reportedly close to signing Chelsea striker Armando Broja, as David Moyes seeks to strengthen his forward line.
The Hammers have already signed Nayef Aguerd, Alphonse Areola and Flynn Downes this summer, and it is understood David Moyes is targeting at least three more signings before the transfer window slams shut. Reinforcing the strike force is seen as one of Moyes’ main priorities as he wants to add competition for Michail Antonio during the upcoming campaign.
According to reliable Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, West Ham have submitted an official bid to sign Armando Broja as talks progress between them and Chelsea. The young striker has agreed personal terms with West Ham and is awaiting Chelsea’s final decision on his future, Romano tweeted.
Broja, 20, spent the last season on loan on the books of Southampton, scoring nine goals in 38 games in all competitions. This has seen the Albania international catch the attention of several Premier League clubs this summer including Newcastle United, Southampton and Everton.
However, it appears West Ham are on the cusp of getting the man they have chased since the transfer window started.
Armando Broja to West Ham—A cracking signing?
West Ham have done very well in the last two seasons but would want to challenge for a place in the Champions League in the upcoming season. Moyes continues to build his squad with new faces and now wants to bring in a striker to relieve the burden from the shoulders of Michail Antonio.
Antonio, 32, looked jaded during the back end of last season, as the Hammers reached the Europa League semi-finals before losing to eventual winners Eintracht Frankfurt. While Antonio wasn’t scoring regularly, he was helping the team with his hold-up play and movement in the final third. Thus, Moyes believes the club cannot go through another window without signing a striker and has set his sights on Armando Broja.
Broja impressed with his hold-up play, aerial ability and finishing skills during his loan spell with Southampton. The 20-year-old formed a strong connection with Che Adams up front, averaging 1.4 shots, 2.8 aerials won, 0.3 key passes and 1 dribble per game in the Premier League. He needs to improve his ball-control and passing skills as evidenced by his 1.6 times dispossession per game and 61.4% pass success rate. (stats courtesy: whoscored)
The above mini-stats does show that the Albania international is a young, dynamic and talented striker but still very raw. With age, experience and proper guidance, Broja can become a top predator in the box for both club and country. Undoubtedly, he has the qualities to make an immediate impact at the London Stadium and gradually replace the ageing Antonio up front.
That being said, West Ham convincing Chelsea to sell Broja this summer would represent a massive coup for Moyes and the club.