Reported Newcastle United target Armando Broja has been left out of the Chelsea squad for their pre-season trip to the United States. The Magpies - as well as West Ham and Southampton - are linked with the Albanian international, who spent last season on loan at the Saints.
Despite offloading Romelu Lukaku to Inter Milan, it appears Broja's days at Stamford Bridge are numbered. The Athletic claimed in midweek that the 20-year-old wanted his future ironed out before the trip to the States.
Ralph Hasenhuttl handed the Albanian international a chance to impress in the Premier League at St Mary’s last season. Six goals in 32 appearances is an underwhelming return but has not deterred their interest.
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A striker remains a priority for Eddie Howe and the recruitment setup, with Callum Wilson’s injury record well-documented and Chris Wood struggling to hit the ground running. Toon chiefs grew frustrated in their pursuit of Reims striker Hugo Ekitike and, while not slamming the door on the deal completely, have begun identifying alternatives.
Leaving Broja out of the 29-man pre-season squad is the biggest hint yet that Thomas Tuchel aims to move the striker on. For context, former Newcastle loanee Kenedy - who has made two Premier League appearances for Chelsea in six years - is heading to the US.
It is believed Broja would prefer a permanent transfer to another loan, a gamble considering the Blues’ £30million valuation and his barren run in 2021-22. Talks between the youngster’s representatives and new Chelsea co-owner Ted Boehly are ongoing.
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