“Both Expected to Leave” – Fabrizio Romano Reveals Major Transfer Update on Everton Target and Chelsea Star
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Everton target and Chelsea forward Armando Broja is “expected to leave” after his pre-season struggles.
Broja, who featured for Armenia in all three of their Euro 2024 group games, joined Enzo Maresca’s side for pre-season preparations.
Despite playing against Wrexham and Club America, he remained on the bench against Celtic and Manchester City and was excluded from the squad against Real Madrid.
His pre-season performance did not help his case, especially after a poor finish in a one-on-one situation with Club America’s keeper, highlighting his lack of goal-scoring potency.
Consequently, Broja’s future at Stamford Bridge appears bleak, with Chelsea already having Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, and Marc Guiu in their ranks, and reportedly seeking another striker.
After the latest match, Romano announced on X that both Broja and David Datro Fofana are expected to leave Chelsea on permanent transfers, noting Broja’s absence from the squad that night.
Previously, it was reported by Spanish publication AS that Everton had engaged in talks over a potential move for Broja, with figures around £25.2 million.
The future of Everton’s strikeforce heavily hinges on Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s situation. Entering the final year of his contract, it’s uncertain if any clubs will pursue their interest in him.
Valued around £20 million, Calvert-Lewin had drawn interest from Manchester United and West Ham, but both clubs have since signed Joshua Zirkzee and Niclas Fulkrug, respectively, possibly closing the door on a move.
Broja, 22, has had a challenging two seasons with Chelsea, scoring just three goals in 38 appearances.
His most prolific period came during a loan spell at Southampton in the 2021/22 season, where he netted nine goals in 38 games across all competitions, using his pace and power to trouble defenses.
However, a cruciate ligament tear severely impacted his 2022/23 campaign, sidelining him for 274 days and diminishing his physical prowess.
Everton, in search of a reliable goal scorer, may consider Broja despite his recent struggles. Last season, Calvert-Lewin managed eight goals while Beto struggled as his reserve. If Broja can regain his form and fitness, he could be a valuable addition to Everton’s squad.
