West Ham United have seemingly suffered a setback in their pursuit of Chelsea striker Armando Broja...

What's the word?

As per respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, the 20-year-old's exit from Stamford Bridge is now looking unlikely, with Blues manager Thomas Tuchel eager to keep the Albania international at the club this season.

Writing on Twitter to provide an update on the future of the 14-cap menace, the transfer guru stated: "Chelsea, still not accepting any official bid for Armando Broja as of now. Tuchel insists in keeping the player, not happy with potential permanent transfer - after West Ham's £30m proposal rejected 10 days ago. More talks on Chelsea side will take place soon."

As Romano referenced, the Hammers are believed to have put forward a £30m offer for the highly-rated starlet prior to their recent capture of Italian ace Gianluca Scamacca, although they were said to still be keen on making another move for Broja in the coming weeks despite bringing in the Sassuolo giant.

Huge blow for West Ham

It appears that West Ham are facing a losing battle in their hope of adding the Slough-born marksman to their squad this summer, with it set to be a notable blow if they are to miss out on his much-coveted signature, as both Everton and Newcastle United also reportedly hold an interest.

While the acquisition of the aforementioned Scamacca will more than soften the blow, it remains to be seen how quickly the 23-year-old will bed into David Moyes' side, with adapting to life in English football not always a smooth transition.

By contrast, Broja offers ready-made Premier League quality having sparkled on loan at Southampton last term, netting nine goals in all competitions for Ralph Hasenhuttl's side, with that tally including six in the top flight.

The £19.8m-rated brute caught the eye for his finishing prowess and his impressive running power, notably terrorising Craig Dawson when the two sides met in the FA Cup in March, with the youngster capping a fine display with a late solo goal to clinch victory for the Saints.

That performance illustrated just what an impressive talent the young man is, with it no surprise that Moyes and co have been so keen to bring him to the London Stadium this summer.

Alas, if they are to make a further centre-forward signing before the September 1st deadline, it looks unlikely to be Broja, which is potentially a huge blow for the Irons as the season kicks off, particularly if Scamacca fails to fire for West Ham.

AND in other news, Moyes can now form "unreal" duo as West Ham given green light for "limitless" £13m signing...