Throughout the summer, Everton and Newcastle made attempts to sign Armanda Broja from Chelsea.
The Albania international won many admirers following an impressive 2021/22 campaign on loan at Southampton, where he scored nine goals in 38 appearances.
It was said that Frank Lampard considered a late move for Broja ahead of Thursday’s 11pm deadline, while Newcastle were interested in a permanent deal for the 20-year-old.
However, the Toffees and the Magpies have just seen their hopes of signing the Chelsea No.18 in future take a big hit.
What’s the story?
Well, Broja has now committed himself to Chelsea by signing a new six-year contract at Stamford Bridge.
It puts an end to speculation surrounding the Slough-born striker’s future in west London, which intensified as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang arrived at Chelsea before the 11pm deadline.
Despite the signing of the Gabon international – and the presence of Kai Havertz and Raheem Sterling – Broja is clearly happy to stay at Stamford Bridge and attempt to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s starting XI.
It was said that Broja may have been available for just £30m during the summer.
However, we would presume that his value has now soared following the six-year contract extension.
Armando Broja should’ve moved to Everton or Newcastle
In our view, Broja should have signed his new contract at Chelsea before sealing a loan move to Goodison Park or St James’ Park.
Tuchel has only given the youngster 39 minutes of Premier League football so far this season, with Havertz and Sterling preferred in attack.
Now that Aubameyang has arrived, you would expect Broja to see even less action out on the pitch.
That is not what he needs for his development, so he and Chelsea should have ensured another loan deal was lined up before the six-year contract was signed.
Now, Broja risks stagnating on the sidelines, unless he can outshine the likes of Havertz, Sterling and Aubameyang in training.
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