West Ham 'waiting in the wings' to land £50m star at London Stadium | OneFootball

West Ham United are ‘waiting in the wings’ to sign Chelsea striker Armando Broja, although the London Stadium outfit are facing competition from Newcastle United, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Hammers boss David Moyes has strengthened his squad with the additions of Nayef Aguerd and Alphonse Areola in recent weeks, but he has failed to bring in any attacking reinforcements since the transfer window reopened for business.

What’s the latest news involving Broja?

According to Sky Sports, Broja has been identified as West Ham’s top striker target ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline.

The report suggests the Hammers are preparing to test Chelsea’s resolve by lodging a £30million offer for the 14-cap Albania international, although transfer insider Dean Jones previously told GMS that the Blues could want up to £50million for the attacker.

Broja has leapt to the front of Moyes’ thinking after enjoying a season-long loan spell with Premier League rivals Southampton.

However, West Ham are not the only side plotting a move for the 6 ft 3 frontman as the 2022/23 campaign draws closer.

CBS reporter Ben Jacobs has revealed Newcastle United are seriously considering a bid for Broja, while Ajax have also made an enquiry and Napoli and Leicester City are monitoring his situation at Stamford Bridge.

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What has Pete O’Rourke said about Broja?

O’Rourke believes West Ham are preparing to pounce for Broja despite widespread interest in the centre forward.

However, the journalist warns there is still a possibility that the Chelsea man will not head to the London Stadium.

When asked whether a move to Newcastle, rather than West Ham, could be on the cards, O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “I think there’s potential that they could be looking at Armando Broja.

“He could be on the move from Chelsea this summer. Obviously, he impressed during his loan spell at Southampton and West Ham are seemingly waiting in the wings, ready to move for him as well.”

Why does Moyes want Broja at West Ham?

Broja caused West Ham all sorts of problems last season, with him scoring and grabbing an assist when playing against the east Londoners while in Southampton colours.

Michail Antonio is still the Hammers’ only striker and, with them looking forward to Europa Conference League football after finishing seventh in the Premier League during the 2021/22 campaign, strength in depth is needed.

Having found the back of the net nine times and statistics showing Broja averaged more shots on target per 90 minutes than Antonio last term, the 20-year-old could be a shrewd addition to Moyes’ squad.