Everton FC has suffered another transfer setback as Ipswich Town has agreed to sign Chelsea striker Armando Broja on loan, sources have revealed to Football Insider. This development comes after Everton had explored a potential deal for the 22-year-old striker, who emerged as a top target for the Toffees.
However, Ipswich moved swiftly to secure the deal, which includes an option to buy at the end of the loan spell. This marks the third instance this summer where Everton has been beaten to a transfer by Ipswich, following failed attempts to sign Kalvin Phillips and Jens Cajuste.
Everton’s need for a new striker has been a priority this summer, given their struggles in front of goal last season. Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto scored a combined 14 goals in 77 games, leading to calls for a more clinical striker to arrive at Goodison Park. The Toffees scored just 40 goals in 38 Premier League games in 2023-24, ranking as the second-lowest scoring team in the league.
Broja, who has scored just three goals in 38 appearances for Chelsea, was considered by Everton’s recruitment team, but now looks set to join Ipswich. The Chelsea forward struggled during a half-season loan at Fulham last year, making just eight appearances and failing to find the net.
Ipswich, meanwhile, continues their ambitious summer spending, having secured deals for Omari Hutchinson, Sammie Szmodics, and Jacob Greaves. The signing of Broja demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their squad for the upcoming season.
Everton’s transfer woes continue, with the club still seeking a reliable goal-scorer to bolster their attack. The Toffees will need to explore alternative options, with Eddie Nketiah also linked to a move away from Arsenal.