Despite the deal once looking like a certainty, the transfer of Armando Broja from Chelsea to Ipswich Town appears to now be off. This may frustrate Blues fans as they still need to move on numerous players before tomorrow’s deadline.
Armando Broja to Ipswich Town Collapsed: Chelsea Frustrated
‘100% Off and Collapsed’
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Broja’s “move to Ipswich Town is 100% off and collapsed”. The striker has already returned to London, likely ready to train with the squad.
On August 20, the two clubs had agreed on a loan deal, with a mandatory buy-clause if the Tractor Boys avoided relegation. The package was worth over £30 million, a substantial fee for a player who’s performed inconsistently in the past few years and has struggled with injury.
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Despite the Albanian passing his medical on August 21, it has been revealed today that the move is completely off due to issues with formal steps. Chelsea should view this as a big missed opportunity to get rid of some “deadwood”.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
For Ipswich, they will look for another forward. Jacob Steinberg revealed that they have been looking for alternatives for the past five days, as goal threat up front can be crucial in a relegation battle.
The Suffolk-based outfit have already signed Liam Delap this summer, though with just four Premier League appearances, he should not be relied upon to help them battle for survival. Someone who potentially does have enough firepower is Sammie Szmodics, who scored 33 goals last season and already has four this campaign. However, he plays in a slightly deeper role; Ipswich should still look to sign a new centre-forward.
For Chelsea, they will also need to act quickly. Offloading Broja, temporarily or permanently, is crucial. With 42 first-team players, he would struggle to get into a matchday squad. At 22-years-old, he desperately needs minutes for his development and to retain his £30 million valuation. Six months of very little football would be damaging for the player and his club’s financial position.
