Le Havre close to signing Josh Maja (ex-West Bromwich

According to Sports.

Why this matters

The signing of Josh Maja is a significant step for Le Havre as they look to strengthen their attack in the demanding Ligue 1. The Nigerian striker brings with him valuable experience, having already played in France and demonstrated his ability to score goals, especially last season in Ligue 2. His arrival could be crucial in helping the club secure their stay in the top flight.

Main conclusions

Le Havre close to signing Josh Maja (ex-West Bromwich.
Le Havre is preparing to sign striker Josh Maja, free of contract, on a two-season contract with the option for a third.
Le Havre to sign former West Bromwich Albion striker Josh Maja - Yahoo Sports.

Le Havre are very close to securing the signing of Josh Maja, a 27-year-old Nigerian international striker who is free, according to L'Équipe. According to the same source, the agreement provides for a two-season contract, with the option for another season, in a clear commitment by the Normans to reinforce the offensive sector for the demanding campaign in Ligue 1.

Maja recently left English football, after finishing a three-year contract in the Championship, and is preparing to return to France, a country where he already represented Bordeaux in three campaigns: between 2019 and 2021 and again in 2022/23. It was precisely in that last season in Ligue 2 that the striker scored 16 goals for the Girondins, credentials that Le Havre now hope to recover in the French top flight.

The bet on the former West Bromwich Albion striker comes at a time when Le Havre were looking for a new goalscorer for the attack, following the departure of Issa Soumaré, who transferred to Rennes as a free agent. Maja's arrival aims to fill this gap, offering mobility, presence in the area and experience in different European championships, factors considered decisive for a team whose objective is to guarantee permanence and consolidate its status in Ligue 1.

Maja's profile fits what Le Havre has been looking for: a striker with finishing ability, but also available to work between the lines and attack from deep. At 27 years old, the Nigerian is entering a phase of maturity that could enhance his immediate impact. Returning to a context he knows — French football — could accelerate his integration and increase his chances of performing from an early age.

It is worth remembering that Le Havre has based its project on surgical decisions in the market, prioritizing opportunities and players with space to increase their value. The eventual signing of Maja, for two seasons and the option for another, also guarantees some stability for the Norman club in building the squad in the medium term, especially in a decisive position such as center forward.

If the latest details are confirmed, Maja will return to French football with the mission of adding goals and offensive presence to a Le Havre team that intends to resolve the issue of maintenance early and look, with greater ambition, at the top half of the table. For now, the officialization of the agreement is expected in the coming days.

What happens next

With the imminent signing of Josh Maja, Le Havre must quickly integrate the player into their plans for the new season. The team hopes that Maja can fill the void left by Issa Soumaré and contribute with goals and assists. The striker's performance will be closely monitored, as staying in Ligue 1 is a priority for the club.

Frequently asked questions

What happened to Josh Maja?

Josh Maja is very close to signing a two-year contract with Le Havre.

Who confirmed the signing of Josh Maja?

The information was provided by L'Équipe.

Why are Le Havre signing Josh Maja now?

Le Havre are looking for a new striker following the departure of Issa Soumaré to Rennes.

What changes does the signing of Josh Maja bring to Le Havre?

Maja offers mobility, presence in the box and experience, helping to reinforce the team's attack.

What is Josh Maja's background in France?

Maja has already represented Bordeaux between 2019 and 2021 and again in the 2022/23 season.