Despite getting offers from around Europe, Chelsea striker Armando Broja feels it’s possible he’ll stay at Stamford Bridge for the upcoming season.
Since making his senior debut against Everton back in March 2020, Broja has failed to make an impression in Chelsea’s first squad, and it’s said the club is actively attempting to unload the 22-year-old this summer.
In an attempt to jumpstart his faltering career, Broja made a temporary move to Fulham in February following a successful loan stint with Southampton. The striker had eight appearances for the Cottagers, but he was unable to score.
Chelsea bosses are keen to get the bulk of their transfer business completed before Enzo Maresca’s squad begin pre-season and Broja is deemed surplus to requirements, with the Blues determined to bring in upgrades up front.
Benjamin Sesko had been Chelsea’s top target in attack before signing a new deal with RB Leipzig and the likes of Samu Omorodion, Jhon Duran and Alexander Isak are all being linked with the west London giants.
With Chelsea seemingly on the hunt for his replacement, Broja told Albanian TV channel RTV Klan that he had potential escape routes out of Stamford Bridge and was wanted by teams in Italy, Germany and England.
However, the Albania international stressed that staying at Chelsea was still an ‘option’ given there were four years remaining on his current deal.
‘It’s true, I have offers from Serie A, the Bundesliga and the Premier League,’ Broja said.
‘Staying at Chelsea? It is an option. I still have a contract here.’
In the midst of rumors that AC Milan was interested, Broja disclosed how he would respond if Zlatan Ibrahimovic called regarding a transfer to the San Siro.
I would tell him right away that I think highly of him. As a player, I’ve always enjoyed him, remarked Broja.
Milan is one of the best clubs in history, surpassed only by Real Madrid.
“I would tell him that before I let him know, I need to talk to my family and agent.”
Broja joined Chelsea’s academy in 2009 following a two-year stint with the club’s rivals Tottenham.
The attacker has shown glimpses of his undoubted potential in the Blues’ first-team but has failed to nail down a first-team place and his situation has not been helped by the club’s revolving door of managers.
‘I think it’s a very good thing for him to have the opportunity to play maybe more,’ former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino said prior to Broja’s underwhelming loan spell at Fulham last term.
“I believe it’s a wise decision for him.” I’m hoping he can seize the chance to play more.