Newcastle ‘make enquiry to Chelsea about Armando Broja as they explore transfer alternative to Hugo Ekitike’

NEWCASTLE will consider a swoop for Chelsea striker Armando Broja if they cannot sign Hugo Ekitike, according to reports.

The Magpies have had their sights set on signing Ekitike, 20, since January, but they have struggled to get a deal across the line.

They came close to an agreement earlier this year when Reims accepted a £33million bid, but the striker decided to snub the offer to stay in France until the end of the season.

Now, Newcastle are reportedly close to a new deal worth £36million as they continue their pursuit of the Frenchman.

However, numerous clubs including Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid have also expressed an interest, meaning the discussions could be hijacked.

As a result, Eddie Howe and his staff have lined up an alternative option.

According to , Newcastle have made a formal inquiry to Chelsea about Armando Broja.

Broja, 20, signed his first professional contract with the Blues in 2020, but he has only made one appearance for the senior team since then.

He spent the 2020-21 season on loan at Vitesse where he finished the campaign as the joint-top goalscorer in the Eredivisie.

Chelsea decided to loan him out again last season, but this time he stayed in the Premier League to lead the line for Southampton.

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In 32 league appearances he scored six goals, but his fine form has attracted the interest of various clubs.

West Ham are said to be eager to sign the striker, with David Moyes making him a priority target.

The Hammers are reportedly willing to make a £30million bid in an attempt to seal the deal.

But he could still have a future at Stamford Bridge as Thomas Tuchel has agreed to give him the chance to impress in pre-season.