West Ham Begin 'covert' Move to Sign 'outstanding' Striker-A Realistic Bet?

West Ham United are reportedly now close to securing the signing of Chelsea's Armando Broja, was dubbed an 'outstanding' striker by Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl. The 20-year-old Albanian international having spent a season on loan at St Mary's, scoring nine goals in 30 appearances in all competitions. Havng had a £40 Million bid for Connor Gallagher rejected by the Stamford bridge 'hedge fund', Hammers are now in realistic territory.

West Ham's Interest and Competition

Broja has been on West Ham's radar for a while as David Moyes looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of a Europa Conference League campaign. The Hammers are yet to make a signing thus far, but are 'confident' that is all about to change, Broja IS a realistic target whereas others being mooted seem remote at the very least.

Unfortunately Hammers face competition from Everton, who are also in the market for a striker since selling Richarlison to Tottenham for £60m. The Toffees are said to be preparing a rival bid for Broja, who has told Chelsea that he wants a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge.

The Odds in the Transfer Market

As the anticipation for Broja's potential move heats up, fans and stakeholders take to various platforms to speculate on the outcome. In this high-stakes game, akin to a casino, everyone is looking to place their bets correctly on where the talented striker will end up.

Chelsea's Reluctance and Broja's Ambition

Chelsea are reluctant to lose Broja, who is regarded as one of their most promising academy graduates. The youngster signed a new five-year contract with the Blues last year, but he is keen to play regular first-team football and needs a clear path under Thomas Tuchel's replacement Mauricio Pochetino. Chelsea has already strengthened their attacking options by splurging big on the likes of Christopher Nkunku from RB Leipzig and Nicolas Jackson from Ajax among others. The outgoingGerman coach also had Romelu Lukaku, Timo Werner, Kai Havertz and Hakim Ziyech at his disposal, leaving little room for Broja.

West Ham's Offer and Broja's Potential

West Ham are hoping to take advantage of Broja's situation and lure him to the London Stadium with the promise of more game time and European football. The Hammers have submitted an improved offer of £30m plus add-ons for the striker and are apparently close to agreeing personal terms with him. Broja would be an ideal fit for West Ham's style of play, as he is a powerful, pacey and clinical finisher who can also hold up the ball and link up with his teammates. He has been compared to Lukaku by some observers, and has already shown his potential at both club and international level.

Of course the 'elephant in the room' is that Broja has only recently returned from a serious ACL injury that could have ruined his career, so IF he does sign for West Ham his medical will need to be comprensive, especially given Hammers record of signing 'crocks'.

Broja's International Career

Broja debuted for Albania in September 2020, scoring on his first appearance against Belarus. He has since scored four more goals in 10 caps for his country, including a brace against San Marino in The World Cup qualifiers.

Interest from Other Clubs

Broja's impressive ppre-injury form attracted interest from several European clubs, including Newcastle, Napoli and Sassuolo. However, West Ham are confident they can win the race for his signature and complete their 'covert' move before the transfer window
shuts on September 1.

Potential for Further Deals

If West Ham sign Broja, they could also pave the way for another deal involving one of their strikers. AS Roma are keen to sign Gianluca Scamacca from Sassuolo, but they must sell Edin Dzeko first. West Ham have been linked with Dzeko in the past, and could reignite their interest in the experienced Bosnian forward.

Dzeko's Potential Contribution

Dzeko would provide West Ham with more depth and experience in attack, as he has scored over 200 goals in his career for clubs such as Manchester City, Wolfsburg and Roma. He could also mentor Broja and help him develop into a top-class striker.

West Ham's Aspirations and Fan Expectations

West Ham fans hope their club can pull off these deals and strengthen their squad for the upcoming season. The Hammers finished sixth in the Premier League the season before last, their best-ever finish and will be looking to make up for the lack of domestic success last season.

Looking Forward

West Ham fans deserve some fun after supporting their team through thick and thin. They will be hoping that Broja can join them soon and help them reach new heights in the form of winning the Europa League having already won the competition's less significant 'cousin', The Europa Conference League lsat time out.