SAINTS legend Francis Benali has admitted he thinks it might be difficult to keep loanee Armando Broja, adding “he might potentially be outvalued” if his stock keeps increasing.

Fresh reports have emerged from football.london claiming that Arsenal are the latest Premier League club monitoring the situation of the 20-year-old frontman.

Broja, who is on loan at Saints from Chelsea until the end of the season, has already hit six goals in the Premier League with his equaliser versus Spurs midweek.

He followed that up with an impressive performance at Old Trafford on Saturday, proving a constant nuisance for Manchester United captain and England international Harry Maguire.

Manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has made clear that Saints will try to keep Broja at St Mary’s for as long as possible, whether that be a new loan or on permanent terms, with CEO Martin Semmens in constant contact with Blues.

Benali has conceded that Broja is a player that would frighten him if on the opposite team, but that it could mean he is very difficult to keep on the south coast.

Daily Echo: Francis Benali MBE (Pic: PA)Francis Benali MBE (Pic: PA) (Image: PA)

"Armando Broja, he's only 20 years of age, he has been sensational since he has broken into the team," Benali told BBC Radio 5 Live.

"I genuinely feel as a former defender, I would be thinking that ('oh no, not you again'). He is strong, powerful, he is positive, he is a threat in the air and he quite clearly can score goals as well.

"He has had a few chances against Tottenham and Man United, where you think maybe he could have converted them, but he is doing so well and he is only 20 years of age."

Hasenhuttl had claimed Broja is enjoying life at Staplewood and his family want him to stay longer, with friendships in the young squad helping the Slough-born forward settle in.

However, Chelsea hold the ball in their court on his future and could either keep him for their squad or will no doubt seek the best financial resolution if they do decide to cash in – leaving the door open to clubs with bigger budgets to battle Saints.

Daily Echo: A decision could be made on Armando Broja's future in the summer (Pic: PA)A decision could be made on Armando Broja's future in the summer (Pic: PA)

That is the view of Benali, who added: “If his stock keeps increasing like it is with the way he is going at the moment, he might potentially be outvalued to a club like Southampton.

"I am hoping that won't be the case and that he can stay on a permanent deal for a longer period of time, but he's just a real handful to play against.

"I can't help but feel that even if he wouldn't be a starter at Chelsea, Thomas Tuchel may want to take him back now that he has shown that he can play in the Premier League, can score in the Premier League and at international level as well.

"He will be a big asset for a team like Chelsea."

Broja already has 10 caps for his country and has scored three goals, including winners home and away in World Cup qualification versus Hungary.