West Ham turn to Chelsea striker Broja after Duran rejection

West Ham United may turn to Chelsea’s Armando Broja in their search for a new striker, according to the Guardian.

The cash-strapped Hammers recently submitted a loan bid for Aston Villa prospect Jhon Duran.

The 20-year-old Colombian striker joined Villa from Chicago Fire last year and has netted two goals in the Premier League this term. 

However, Duran is behind Ollie Watkins in the pecking order and wants more starts. Interestingly, Chelsea are also interested in Duran but haven’t made a concrete offer.

The Villains rejected West Ham’s offer as they do not want to handicap themselves, considering they are fighting for a top four spot in the Premier League and remain alive in the FA Cup and Europa Conference League.

Following Villa’s rejection, West Ham could turn their attention to Albanian international Broja.

Broja’s future is up in the air this winter. Chelsea are ready to listen to offers as they look to balance their books after spending over £1 billion in the transfer market since 2022.

The 22-year-old has netted just one goal in 13 league appearances but is highly rated, especially as his best years are still ahead of him.

Chelsea would be willing to let Broja go for ‘pure profit’ if they can bring in a replacement or even a stop-gap option.

The Blues are reportedly eyeing short-term fixes such as Saudi Pro League players Karim Benzema and Roberto Firmino.

They will sign a big-money striker in the summer, with Ivan Toney, Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres on their shortlist.

If Chelsea can get one of their targets through the door, then Broja could leave for greener pastures elsewhere – potentially West Ham.