Southampton could still win the race for Chelsea striker Armando Broja this summer but only if the west Londoners agree to loan deal, according to Ryan Taylor of the Daily Express.

Ralph Hasenhuttl has overseen a busy summer at St Mary’s but with the transfer window not shutting until September 1, there is still time for more business to be done.

What is the latest transfer news from Southampton?

The Saints have spent just over £50 million on six new signings this summer including Gavin Bazunu, Joe Aribo, Sekou Mara and Romeo Lavia, but two experienced pros have departed on free transfers in the form of Fraser Forster and Shane Long.

Versatile full-back Kyle Walker-Peters continues to be monitored by the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United with the south-coast club slapping a £40 million price-tag on the defender.

Che Adams too has been linked with an exit. Both Nottingham Forest and Leeds are reportedly battling for the Scotland international’s signature in a move that would leave Hasenhuttl worryingly short of options in attack.

Broja returned to Chelsea this summer after an impressive season on loan with Southampton, meaning that only Adam Armstrong and new arrival Mara could be left.

Towards the end of last season, Hasenhuttl made it clear he wanted to retain his services too, saying: “It has been a very important first season for him. At this moment it is not easy to negotiate with Chelsea. There is no question, and it is not surprising that I want him to stay here another year. I know this would be good for him.”

But the Albanian could still make a return to the club before the transfer window closes.

What has Taylor said on Broja’s situation?

Taylor understands that Southampton have largely accepted they will not be able to land the 20-year-old this summer unless there is a change of heart on Chelsea’s end.

But the reporter has also said that nothing can be ruled out yet and that Broja’s past success could well give Southampton an edge in the chase.

Taylor told GIVEMESPORT: “From what I understand, Southampton have accepted that Broja’s moved on now.

“That said, never say never. It was obviously a great move for him because he really put himself in the shop window and started to show what he could do; Hasenhuttl could build around him.

“Obviously, as I mentioned, Southampton need goals. So why not? If a loan move is something that Chelsea grant because, at the moment, from what I understand it's not going to happen.”

Will Chelsea allow Broja to leave?

Thomas Tuchel has already said he does not want to see the Cobham graduate leave this summer, with him currently valued at £50 million, but that stance could chance quickly if they are able to land a new striker.

A range of names have been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge including Jamie Vardy, Benjamin Sesko and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Southampton may be quietly hoping the Blues bring in someone before the deadline.