Tuchel sets the record straight on the 20-year-old’s future at Chelsea

Thomas Tuchel doesn’t expect Armando Broja to leave Chelsea this summer

Thomas Tuchel has set the record straight and is adamant that Armando Broja will stay at the club this summer even though clubs from around the Premier League are sniffing around for his services.

West Ham United and Newcastle United are the two sides currently battling it out to sign the talented Slough-born Albanian striker from the Blues. He is coming off an excellent 2021/22 campaign that he spent on loan at Southampton.

Speaking during Chelsea’s US tour (h/t Mirror), Tuchel made it clear that Broja was in his plans. The German is aware of the interest the 20-year-old has garnered. A decision will soon be made after taking the owners and the player into consideration.

“I don’t expect him to leave.

“We are aware of interest and offers, which just tells us there is a lot of potential, and the owners and me will take this decision together in the end, also with the player.”

The interest surrounding Broja comes after the 20-year-old broke onto the scene during his spell at Southampton last season. In 38 appearances for the Saints, he scored nine goals. The Albanian international’s performances were impressive.

Tuchel has seen the drive in the player to prove a point in training. The German believes Broja wants to take the next step in his career. The gaffer believes the 20-year-old wants to make an impression during pre-season.

But Broja left the Stamford Bridge side’s US tour early, amplifying the speculation about his exit. Tuchel has assured that an injury is what cut short the Albanian’s trip to America.

“Unfortunately he injured himself and of course there is a lot of noise going on because there are offers and interest in him. Let’s see how this goes but I’m pretty calm about it because we know the situation and we have a contract.”

Chelsea are in dire need of an out-and-out striker after the departure of Romelu Lukaku on loan. The Belgian was our top goalscorer last season, even though he had an abysmal time at the club.

Our summer additions as of yet have been Raheem Sterling and Kalidou Koulibaly. Unfortunately, there doesn’t seem to be any real interest from the Blues in bringing in a number nine this summer.

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Standing at 1.91 metres, Broja fits the bill of a target man. The 20-year-old proved himself in the Premier League last season. Fans will hope he stays for next season and develops further under Tuchel at Chelsea.