WEST HAM are closing in on a deal to sign Armando Broja from Chelsea with the striker flying back from the United States before completing a move.
Negotiations between the London rivals, which began with a £25million bid from West Ham last week, are said to be progressing well.
Armando Broja has left Chelsea’s pre-season tour to the USA to seal a move to West Ham
Broja had jetted to the States last week but is heading back to the UK already
There is confidence that a deal can be struck after a second offer of £30million before add-ons was lodged.
David Moyes and a number of the West Ham squad have been keen on Broja, 20, since the striker shone in Southampton’s 3-2 win over the Hammers on Boxing Day.
Broja tormented the West Ham defence – claiming an assist and winning a penalty in the match.
The Chelsea academy graduate also scored a fine solo goal against Moyes’s side in Southampton’s FA Cup fifth round win at St. Mary’s.
His Cup strike was one of nine goals scored across all competitions for Southampton during his loan last term.
Ralph Hasenhuttl had been hoping to bring Broja back to the south coast on a permanent basis but the Saints would not match Chelsea’s asking price.
Broja only recently flew out to the US in order to join Thomas Tuchel’s squad on their pre-season tour but he is returning to London following a slight injury and in preparation to make a move.
The Blues ace will form part of what Moyes views as a crucial summer as he looks to keep West Ham fighting for European places.
Goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, defender Nayef Aguerd and midfielder Flynn Downes have already arrived at the London Stadium.
Business is not expected to end with Broja’s arrival either.
West Ham also have bids in for Lille midfielder Amadou Onana and Sassuolo striker Gianluca Scamacca.
Furthermore, Moyes wants to add a left-back and a wide forward, with Blackburn Rovers forward Ben Brereton Diaz being considered for up to £15million.
A striker has been a priority, however.
West Ham have gone 18 months with Michail Antonio as the only senior option in that position.
The Hammers have not added a striker since the departure of Sebastien Haller to Ajax in January 2021.
