Premier League rule will block Newcastle United striker loan deal as Chelsea scenario discussed

Chelsea have reportedly made Armando Broja available for loan, leaving some Newcastle United fans wondering if a deadline day deal could be on the cards.

The Magpies face the possibility of being without a recognised senior striker for the Premier League clash at home to Luton Town on Saturday (kick-off 3pm). Alexander Isak signalled to come off with a groin injury during the first-half of Tuesday's 3-1 win at Aston Villa, which saw Anthony Gordon moved into the central striker position with Callum Wilson also unavailable.

Wilson is understood pushing for a return against Luton after missing the previous five matches with a calf issue. But without Isak, who Eddie Howe will provide an update on when he speaks to the media on Friday, Wilson's minutes will need to be managed carefully to ensure he remains fit.

The Athletic have reported that Chelsea open to allowing Broja to leave on a straight loan (no obligation) amid interest from Fulham and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Some Newcastle fans have seen the story on social media and questioned if their club could join the race.

However, as per Premier League rules "the maximum number of loans registrable in the same season is four, and, under no circumstances, shall more than one be from the same club at any one time."

Newcastle already have one player on loan from Chelsea which, of course, is Lewis Hall. There is an obligation to make the move permanent for an initial £28million at the end of the season, if certain performance-related criteria is met.

Therefore, the only way Newcastle could register Broja is either by bringing Hall's deal forward, or indeed ending it altogether. The other alternative is to sign Broja permanently but that scenario won't happen with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) heavily restricting United's ability to make a signing this month.

Speaking after the win at Villa Park, Howe all-but ruled out any deadline arrivals. He said: "I expect to be finished for the window. I think there is very little time left to do anything either in or out. That’s where it stands. I don’t think we have the ability to do anything."