West Ham are aiming to secure the signature of Chelsea striker Armando Broja, according to the Gazzetta Dello Sport.

The Italian newspaper reports that the Albanian “seems destined to move” to the London Stadium on a permanent basis for around €35m (£30m).

It is believed that this would then open up the possibility of Gianluca Scamacca moving to Roma on loan.

Up until now, the Hammers have made it clear in no uncertain terms that they don’t want to loan the Italian international to the Giallorossi.

After paying £35.5m for Scamacca a year ago, they are not willing to let him leave on a temporary basis, unless there is a clause that would lead to him being sold. However, Gazzetta say that Roma are hoping the arrival of Broja will change West Ham’s stance.

A deal for Broja may not be imminent

While the Italian press seem adamant that a deal for the Chelsea forward is close, there has been no confirmation of that from sources in the English media.

West Ham are definitely making moves in the transfer market, as they are closing in on a deal for Manchester City winger Carlos Borges, but there has been no suggestion that the Irons are set to sign Broja as well.

Broja is a long term transfer target for West Ham

It is true that David Moyes’ side did make an approach for Broja last summer, prior to bringing in Scamacca, but the move was ultimately blocked by Chelsea.

The Blues tied down the striker to a new six-year contract back in September last year but a lot has changed since then. Broja sustained a serious knee injury at the end of 2022 and he has just recovered full fitness.

There is a possibility that he could become available nearer the end of the summer if Chelsea sign another forward but there isn’t any certainty a move will happen at this stage.