Chelsea 'in talks with Armando Broja over new contract'

Chelsea are reportedly in discussions with Armando Broja and his representatives over a new contract.

The 20-year-old, who still has another four years left to run on his current deal, is back at Stamford Bridge this summer after a successful 2021-22 campaign on loan at Southampton.

The Albania international managed nine goals and one assist in 38 appearances for the Saints, and he has been strongly linked with another short-term exit in the current market.

West Ham United, Everton and Newcastle United are among the teams to be linked with the youngster, but Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel said last month that he is not expecting the Albanian to leave this summer.

"I don't expect Armando to leave," Tuchel told reporters in July. "We are aware of offers and interest, which tell us there is a lot of potential. We will take this decision together with me, the owners and also the player.

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"When he arrived [in the US for pre-season], it was clear he was trying to impress to try and become a Chelsea player as soon as possible after his loan at Southampton. The situation was clear - to make the next step and show his improvement and make an impression, but unfortunately, he injured himself."

According to The Athletic, Chelsea are keen to improve Broja's terms at the club and are already in discussions with his camp over a fresh contract.

The centre-forward, who also scored 11 times for Vitesse during a loan spell in 2020-21, has been involved in both of his team's Premier League matches this season.

Broja played the final 15 minutes of Chelsea's 1-0 win over Everton on August 6, while he was a late substitute in Sunday's 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.

Chelsea are working to bring in another forward before the end of the transfer window, having allowed Romelu Lukaku to return on loan to Inter Milan for the 2022-23 campaign.

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Kai Havertz has operated as the centre-forward for the Blues in the early stages of this season, but the Germany international has found it difficult to make his mark.

Chelsea have already made five signings during the summer market, bringing in Gabriel Slonina, Carney Chukwuemeka, Kalidou Koulibaly, Raheem Sterling and Marc Cucurella.

As well as Lukaku, Timo Werner has departed this summer, securing a return to RB Leipzig, which has further limited Tuchel's options in the final third of the field.

Chelsea will be bidding to continue what has been a solid start to their 2022-23 Premier League campaign when they make the trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United on August 21.