‘As it stands…’ - Transfer insider drops exciting West Ham claim after ‘discussions’ this week

According to transfer insider Dean Jones, West Ham are leading the race to sign Chelsea forward Armando Broja this summer.

The 20-year-old spent the 2021/22 Premier League campaign on loan at Southampton, but despite returning to his parent club, he could be set for another move away from Stamford Bridge.

The Daily Mail credited the Irons with an interest in the Albania international at the weekend, although they are set to face competition for his signature from top-flight rivals Newcastle United and Everton.

There were reports stating that GSB were considering plotting a £30m bid for the youngster, but David Moyes’ side are yet to submit any kind of formal offer.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones insisted that West Ham would be in pole position to secure Broja if he decides to leave Chelsea in the coming weeks.

The journalist said: “It’s all part of the discussions that they’re having this week. If Broja wants to go then they’re totally open to the player having a big say in where he actually ends up.

“As it stands, West Ham are basically at the front of the queue.”

With Michail Antonio the only natural centre-forward in West Ham’s squad, Moyes is extremely light in that department, so he will no doubt be looking at multiple strikers that he could bring to the London Stadium.

Broja is 6 foot 3 and could therefore add a different dimension with his height up top, while he’s also prolific in front of goal, hitting the back of the net nine times in all competitions for the Saints last term, via Transfermarkt.

The Hammers will be gearing up for a campaign in the Europa Conference League, but with the much-needed prospective addition of Broja to supplement Antonio’s scoring threat, they could be making a serious push to regain