Journalist Chris Waugh believes that Armando Broja seeking assurances over game time could hinder a move to Newcastle United this summer.
Sky Sports News reporter Keith Downie has told GiveMeSport that the Chelsea striker is most definitely on Newcastle’s radar, as the club now look to bolster their attacking ranks in the remainder of the window.
Having reinforced the defence with Nick Pope, Sven Botman and Matt Targett all arriving, transfer expert Dean Jones has stated that Eddie Howe will now turn his attention to bringing in a centre-midfielder, wide-forward and centre-forward.
However, despite being a target, Waugh has now cast doubt over the possibility of Broja arriving at St James’ Park.
Speaking on the Pod on the Tyne, he said: “I think that where things stand at the moment is that Newcastle still do like Broja, and in theory, would like him with a loan and option to buy, but at this stage, I don’t think anything’s close on that front.
“I think that Broja would like to know that he’s going to play regularly, and Newcastle won’t necessarily give him guarantees with that, particularly if Callum Wilson is fit, so other options are being considered.”
TIF Thoughts on Broja and Newcastle…
Should Newcastle sign Broja?
Yes
No
When compared to Callum Wilson last season, Broja scored two fewer goals in the Premier League (6), despite playing close to 600 minutes more, but the underlying numbers of 0.32 non-penalty expected goals per 90 minutes (FBref) do suggest that the two players performed quite similarly.
However, having scored eight goals or more in five consecutive Premier League seasons, it would be hard for Howe to dislodge Wilson in favour of the young Albanian frontman, and if he is unhappy at playing second fiddle, it may prove difficult for the Magpies when it comes to a possible transfer.