Armando Broja Faces Uncertain Future as Parma and Udinese Circle Burnley Striker

Key facts

• Armando Broja, 24, joined Burnley from Chelsea for £20m last summer.
• He has scored one goal in 23 Premier League appearances this season.
• Broja has played just over 800 minutes in the Premier League in the ongoing campaign.
• He has two goal contributions this season.
• During Scott Parker's last five games as manager, Broja played less than 30 minutes combined.
• Parma and Udinese are considering a summer move for Broja, potentially on loan.
• Broja had loan spells at Everton, Fulham, and Southampton before joining Burnley.

A £20m Signing That Has Not Delivered

Burnley's £20m investment in Armando Broja last summer has yet to yield returns. The Albanian striker, signed from Chelsea, has managed just one goal in 23 Premier League appearances this season. Injury issues have plagued his campaign, causing him to miss several games and limiting his impact on the pitch. Broja has played a little over 800 minutes in the Premier League this season, contributing two goals or assists. His lack of game time became particularly pronounced under former manager Scott Parker: in Parker's final five matches in charge, Broja played less than 30 minutes combined.

Parma and Udinese Rekindle Interest

Italian Serie A sides Parma and Udinese are once again considering Broja as a potential summer signing. Both clubs had expressed interest in the forward before his move to Turf Moor. Parma and Udinese are looking at Broja as a possible option to bolster their attacking lines. The two clubs may need to bring in a new striker soon. Parma could lose Mateo Pellegrini, while Udinese may part ways with Keinan Davis in the summer. This situation has made Broja an attractive target for both sides.

Burnley Likely to Accept a Loan Deal

Burnley are expected to be open to letting Broja leave on loan this summer, given his underwhelming performances and the club's relegation from the Premier League. Whether the Clarets would insist on an option or obligation to buy in any loan agreement remains unclear. Burnley will have a new manager at the helm soon, and his opinion on Broja's future will be a key factor. The club will likely have to accept a loss on their £20m investment, as Broja has not returned to the form he once showed.

Broja's Checkered Loan History

Before joining Burnley, Broja spent four separate loan spells away from Chelsea. He played for Everton last season, and prior to that had stints at Fulham and Southampton. During those loans, he again failed to catch fire consistently. Two years ago, Juventus looked into loaning Broja from Chelsea, but he eventually joined Everton instead. The Albania international will be keen to ensure his next move is the right one, and the prospect of relaunching his career in Serie A could appeal.

A Move to Italy as a Path to Revival

Broja could look to replicate the success of Keinan Davis, the former Aston Villa player who has found form at Udinese. A move to Italy offers Broja a chance to revive his career in a league that has shown interest in him before. With Burnley's relegation confirmed, the striker can become an opportunity once again in the summer transfer window. Italian clubs may find a loan deal favourable, as Burnley are expected to be flexible.

What Comes Next for Broja

Broja was named on the bench for Burnley's trip to face Leeds United in the Premier League on Friday evening, indicating he remains part of the squad for now. However, his future beyond this season is uncertain. The 24-year-old will need to make a decision that revives his career. A move to Serie A, where he has previously attracted interest, could provide the fresh start he needs. For now, the ball is in Burnley's court as they prepare for a squad shake-up under new management.

The bottom line

• Armando Broja has scored only one goal in 23 Premier League appearances for Burnley this season.
• Parma and Udinese are considering summer moves for Broja, potentially on loan.
• Burnley are likely to accept a loss on their £20m investment and may allow Broja to leave on loan.
• Broja's injury issues and lack of game time under Scott Parker have hindered his performance.
• A move to Serie A could offer Broja a chance to revive his career, similar to Keinan Davis at Udinese.