Southampton in talks over permanent deal for Chelsea striker | OneFootball

Southampton have entered talks with Chelsea over a permanent deal for striker Armando Broja, the Guardian reports.

The Albanian had a promising pre-season with the Blues, and it was suggested that he could feature for the first team.

However, the club opted to loan him out to the Saints, where he has netted seven goals from just 20 games.

Three of those goals have come since December. The south coast outfit are now looking to keep him permanently.

They have made the proposal to the Blues, but it is unclear whether the European champions will consider it.

Football Today verdict:

Broja impressed for Chelsea in pre-season with three goals, but he was still loaned out to gain first-team experience.

The 20-year-old has benefited from the move. He has netted five league goals in winning situations for the Saints.

The club are now desperate to keep hold of him, but manager Thomas Tuchel may have different plans in mind.

The Blues re-signed Romelu Lukaku for a club-record fee last summer, but he has just five league goals to his name.

Kai Havertz and Timo Werner have also misfired up front, having scored a combined tally of three top-flight goals.

This could force Tuchel to freshen up his attack next term. Rather than spending big, Broja could be an option.

He has the traits to succeed with his aerial presence, hold-up play and knack for attempting regular shots.

The youngster has been fondly compared to former favourite Diego Costa by some of the club’s faithful.

There is a good possibility that he will be offered the chance to prove himself with the Blues next season.