Newcastle eye bid for Armando Broja with Eddie Howe’s side set to miss out on Hugo Ekitike – but other clubs are interested ‘with West Ham enquiring about Chelsea striker this week’
- Newcastle are losing patience with forward Hugo Ekitike after agreeing fee
- He decided against joining Newcastle in January and deal again looks difficult
- Eddie Howe is on the lookout for other options, with Armando Broja on the list
- Deal would have to wait until Chelsea make signings with others also interested
Newcastle are lining up a deal for Chelsea forward Armando Broja in the event that they cannot sign Hugo Ekitike.
The Magpies have had their sights set on front man Ekitike, 20, since January, and even agreed a fee with Reims, but the youngster decided to stay in France during the winter window.
And with a summer deal also looking difficult, Eddie Howe‘s side are eyeing potential alternatives, with discussions for the transfer of Broja seemingly set to commence soon.
Armando Broja burst into life on loan at Southampton during the 2021/22 campaign
The forward scored nine goals in 38 games in all competitions for the Saints last year
Hugo Ekitike has stalled on a move to Newcastle on more than one occasion now
According to the Northern Echo, plans were in place for Ekitike to undergo a medical at St. James Park this week, but the move has once again stalled, leaving Newcastle frustrated.
Howe and Newcastle haven’t given up hope of signing the France U21 international, but are not willing to wait forever.
Howe has expressed an interest in bringing Broja, 20, north after the Albanian’s breakout season at Southampton last campaign.
He scored nine goals on loan at St. Mary’s in the 2021/22 season, and the forward isn’t short of admirers, meaning Newcastle would have to fend off other interest if they were to win Broja’s signature.
Eddie Howe (left) has shown interest in signing Broja but David Moyes’ (right) West Ham are also keen
Broja signed a contract extension at Chelsea in the summer of 2021 before joining the Saints
West Ham asked about Broja this week but any deal for the striker will be delayed as Chelsea look to add another attacking option themselves.
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