Chelsea: Tuchel now 'wants to keep' £30m star at Stamford Bridge | OneFootball

Chelsea want to keep Armando Broja beyond September’s deadline, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Albania international’s future has been the subject of intense speculation throughout the summer window, with several Premier League clubs queuing up for the striker’s signature.

What’s the latest news involving Broja?

According to 90min, Everton, West Ham, Southampton, and Newcastle are all interested in the 20-year-old, who’s come to the front following a fruitful loan spell with the Saints last season, which saw him score nine goals.

The same outlet claimed that the Hammers were ‘close’ to agreeing a £25m fee with Chelsea for Broja’s services, although the recent arrival of Gianluca Scamacca at the London Stadium could scupper their move for the Chelsea star.

As could Thomas Tuchel’s recent comments about the youngster. Despite constant links with top-flight clubs, the German stated that he expects Broja to stay in west London.

“I don’t expect him to leave,” Tuchel said. “We are aware of interest and offers, which just tells us there is a lot of potential, and the owners and me will take this decision together in the end, also with the player.”

Downie shares that view, although he reckons that Broja is that one who’s pushing for an exit.

What did Downie say about Broja?

He told GIVEMESPORT: “From what I’m hearing, Chelsea want to keep him and possibly give him another loan.

“I think they would rather keep him around the squad, but he’s made it clear he wants to go, so maybe the best option for Chelsea and him would be for him to go on another loan deal.”

Would Broja get minutes at Chelsea?

Chelsea are yet to sign a replacement for Romelu Lukaku, which could offer fresh hope to Broja that he could force his way into Tuchel’s plans.

However, even when Lukaku was at the club, he wasn’t first choice, with Kai Havertz playing the role of false nine for large parts of last season.

And the German looks on course to lead the line for the Blues once again ahead of their season-opener at Everton on Saturday week having started down the middle in two of their three friendlies.

Beyond Havertz, though, Chelsea have very little in reserve, which Broja might see as a window of opportunity to fight for his place, especially in a campaign where the World Cup could see clubs’ squads stretched.