Mauricio Pochettino is believed to be a fan of Armando Broja – and is keen to see what the Chelsea No.18 is capable of....CONTINUE READING
That is according to Fabrizio Romano.
Well, the reliable Italian journalist believes Pochettino really appreciates the 21-year-old’s talent, and is keen to see what he can do throughout pre-season.
There are a few Premier League clubs interested in Broja – including West Ham, according to The Times – although Romano believes Pochettino wants to take a proper look at the Albania international before making a decision.
Speaking to That’s Football on YouTube, Romano said: “Broja is one of the players who is really appreciated by Pochettino. He wants to try and work with him during pre-season, and then make a decision on whether Chelsea need a new striker.”
The Italian journalist was replying to a question about Nicolas Jackson, and whether or not the Senegal international’s imminent arrival means Chelsea will look for another striker.
Clearly, Pochettino wants to take a look at his internal options before deciding to make a move for another frontman, with the likes of Victor Osimhen and Dusan Vlahovic linked to the Blues.
Impressively, Broja is even said to have started pre-season training early in a bid to catch the eye of Pochettino, linking up with the Under-21 side before first-team duties begin, according to the Evening Standard.
Broja deserves Chelsea chance
In our view, it is pleasing to hear that Pochettino will give Broja an opportunity to shine before signing even more competition.
For too long, Chelsea have ignored their own young talent in favour of signing players from elsewhere.
Levi Colwill is one example, having been loaned to Brighton while Todd Boehly spent heavily on the likes of Kalidou Koulibaly, Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile, all of whom had worse seasons that the Englishman.
Broja certainly has the ability to make an impact in the Premier League – as seen during his loan spell at Southampton – but the chaotic 2022/23 campaign did not afford many chances, before injury ended his season in December.
Hopefully, the Slough-born striker can impress Pochettino, and make a name for himself next season.
