Everton still have ‘strong interest’ in £35m striker who had a great battle with Jarrad Branthwaite

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Everton may have enjoyed a fine summer thus far, but there is a quiet expectation that it will not remain so smooth throughout.

After all, having seemingly navigated PSR with care whilst also bolstering the squad, now that such a deadline has passed, other clubs will be ready to ramp up their spending to truly kickstart the transfer window.

That puts the likes of Jarrad Branthwaite, Amadou Onana and Dominic Calvert-Lewin in even greater focus.

Fortunately, if any were to leave, already a replacement seems to be lined up for the latter.

Everton still want to sign Armando Broja

The latest on Everton’s transfer plans for the summer comes courtesy of The Guardian, who have actually sought to offer an update on their striking situation.

After all, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s future in doubt, many are questioning who could possibly replace the hulking marksman.

This report seemingly has one potential answer: ‘Chelsea, who could sell the Albania forward Armando Broja to Everton, already have Conor Gallagher, Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Roméo Lavia, Lesley Ugochukwu, Andrey Santos and Carney Chukwuemeka as options in midfield. Gallagher’s deal expires in 12 months and he has been targeted by Aston Villa and Tottenham.

‘Chelsea have also looked to shift players before Sunday night’s accounting deadline. Broja is up for sale and has strong interest from Everton, although there is still work to be done on that deal. Milan, Bologna and Wolves are also monitoring the forward.’

Armando Broja reportedly has a £35m price tag.

Armando Broja enjoyed a great battle with Jarrad Branthwaite

Evertonians will certainly be well aware of the talents that Broja has at his disposal, even before these summer links started to appear.

After all, the Albania international has faced off against the Toffees numerous times for a few different Premier League clubs, but perhaps enjoyed his greatest challenge back in December at the end of 2023.

Coming to Goodison Park, the hulking striker spearheaded a poor Chelsea side seeking to disrupt Everton’s momentum, having won two on the bounce.

And whilst he was quiet, failing to score as Sean Dyche’s side cruised to a 2-0 win, the battle he shared with Branthwaite was so impressive.

His intelligent movement got him in behind the English defender a few times, but his recovery speed often saw him back in time to thwart any further threat.

Football tactics writer Joel Parker even wrote at the time: ‘Most dangerous moments have been long balls to Broja in space (great matchup vs Branthwaite.)’

It was a great matchup, but ultimately one which the defender won.

However, given Broja’s youth, and the fact that he has already showcased his penchant for goalscoring at this level, it could mark a shrewd summer investment from Kevin Thelwell.