Podcaster Steve Grant has claimed that Southampton could have an ‘opportunity’ to have Chelsea loanee Armando Broja for another year next season.
Over the summer, the 20-year-old striker arrived at the south coast club on a season-long deal. Since then, it’s safe to say he has proven his quality, scoring six times in all competitions.
With that in mind, fans may already be hoping he can stay with the Saints longer than the initial agreement. When discussing such matters on the Total Saints podcast, Grant explained that it may not be realistic for Broja to break into the Chelsea senior team next season, and so another loan move could suit all parties.
Would Armando Broja stay at Southampton for another season?
Yes
No
He explained himself, asking (22:11): “I’m sure he would love to be playing in the Chelsea first team next season. But is that actually realistic?”
He then added: “Obviously he signed a new contract with Chelsea, as soon as he signed on loan for us. So they obviously see something in him. But that’s long term.
“It may well be that, actually, we have an opportunity to get him for another year. Because we’ve clearly got good relations with Chelsea now.
“The number of transactions we’re doing between the two clubs suggests that everybody’s well on board and we quite like the cut of each other’s jib.”
TIF thoughts on Armando Broja and Southampton…
The Chelsea loanee has been a minor revelation for the Saints so far this season. Indeed, his six strikes means that he has more goals than any other Southampton player so far, including Che Adams and Adam Armstrong.
His form has helped the club edge themselves six points above the relegation zone ahead of Christmas, with 17 points from 17 games.
Despite his obvious talent, Broja does still only have one senior appearance for Chelsea. If he was to return next season, he would be competing with the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Kai Havertz and Timo Werner for first-team minutes.
With that in mind, perhaps he would be better off staying at Southampton for a little while longer as he continues to develop.
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