Everton have been handed a huge boost in the pursuit of Chelsea forward Armando Broja.

What’s the word?

That’s according to the Guardian's Jacob Steinberg, who took to Twitter to confirm the forward’s omission from their pre-season tour, before suggesting that he is 'wanted' by the Toffees hierarchy.

“Armando Broja not part of the Chelsea squad flying out to America today. Striker, who’s wanted by Everton and West Ham, could join up with the squad next week.”

Supporters will be buzzing

This could mark a huge turning point in Everton’s pursuit of the player, who Frank Lampard and Kevin Thelwell will be keen to get from Chelsea to Goodison Park.

The striker enjoyed a fine breakout season last year, scoring six league goals in his first Premier League season.

However, what will be more interesting to Evertonians is his 33 league appearances, which dwarfs the 17 showings that Dominic Calvert-Lewin made. Unbelievable goal scorer or not, to have a consistent threat up front would instantly improve Lampard’s squad.

An area where he does excel is in the air, as the forward ranks in the 86^th percentile for aerials won.

He could act as an ample replacement for the English striker if he were to be injured, or the two could form a formidable strike partnership should Lampard be inclined to alter his tactics.

If a good delivery could be put into these two up front, then central defenders across the league will fear having to defend Everton.

Having scored earlier last season against Tottenham Hotspur, Glenn Hoddle labelled the forward “dangerous”, claiming “he’s such a good striker”.

The Toffees could do with this kind of threat up front, which they lacked last season in Calvert Lewin’s absence.

With a reported price tag of £57.8m, Lampard’s connections could surely see this slashed. The club are still financially hamstrung even after the Richarlison sale, and if Chelsea are keen to offload the 20-year-old then perhaps Everton may end up in a better bargaining position.

Supporters will be buzzing at the prospect of a transfer breakthrough of sorts after a lack of early window movement, and this signing could mark the first of a few shrewd deals over the summer.

AND, in other news: Offer made: Everton make bid for "really special" 6ft1 monster, Frank needs him badly.