Leeds enter Armando Broja running, but rivals ‘confident of deal’ as huge price for striker emerges

Leeds United are reportedly considering an approach to sign Armando Broja this summer – but the Whites will have to act fast with the striker seemingly destined for a move elsewhere.

The Whites are looking to strengthen their attack this summer after their close shave with relegation last time out. But for a final day win at Brentford, Leeds would have been preparing for a return to the Championship. However, now safe, plans to ensure the mistakes of 2021/22 are not repeated are already underway.

United have already strengthened their squad with three big additions. Indeed, Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca have all arrived for a combined £46m.

However, they are clearly not finished yet with Leeds eyeing more additions before the summer window closes. To that end, more cover in midfield, as well as attacking reinforcements, are still being sought.

Top of Leeds’ agenda must surely be a new centre forward. Leeds struggled badly in the ongoing absence of Patrick Bamford last season, with slight winger Dan James proving a rather inadequate replacement.

As such, it’s little surprise to see Leeds linked with a number of options. To that end, they have reportedyly launched a £17m offer for PSG striker Arnaud Kalimuendo.

Armando Broja subject of huge West Ham offer

However, it seems Leeds have plans to move for Broja, if reports in 90min are accurate.

The Chelsea striker caught the eye during a season on loan at Southampton. Scoring nine times in 38 appearances, including one against Leeds, Broja proved a handful for a number of Premier League defences.

He is scheduled to return to parent club Chelsea in pre-season. However, his time back at Cobham might be brief with a number of Premier League suitors all considering moves.

But if Leeds are to get their hands on Broja, they are going to have to act quickly.

That’s because the Albania international is already the subject of a huge bid from West Ham.

Indeed, their opening offer for Broja is reportedly laying on the table at Chelsea to the tune of £30m. And while Chelsea may reject their opening gambit, the London Evening Standard claims there is a ‘confidence’ at West Ham that a deal can be done.

Indeed, the final fee for the 20-year-old could well top £35m with add-ons.

Leeds need for a new striker is obvious

Chelsea, for their part, are in no hurry to sanction his sale, however. And that stance could work in Leeds’ favour if indeed they do decide to pursue their interest.

Leeds United would likely need to sell one of Kalvin Phillips or Raphinha before launching an offer of their own for Broja.

However they do it, strengthening their strikeforce is an absolute must for Jesse Marsch’s side this summer. The failure to replace the crocked Bamford in January almost saw the club pay the ultimate price.

The England striker missed a huge chunk of the season, playing just 560 minutes of Premier League football altogether.

Clearly his lack of goals and presence in attack was felt badly. And while Leeds will tentatively hope he can feature more regularly in 2022/23, they will need to ensure they have cover and competition for the 28-year-old.

Armando Broja is certainly one player that fits the bill for Leeds.

However, with West Ham seemingly in the driving seat, Leeds will need to consider their next move.

His signing, were it to happen, would surely set a transfer record for Leeds. That currently stands at the £27m paid to Valencia for Rodrigo Moreno in summer 2020.

Leeds, meanwhile, have been given hope of a deal to sign Tyler Adams after a trusted source made a big claim about the RB Leipzig midfielder.