Josh Maja to Le Havre: Breakdown of Super Eagles star's potential transfer

Super Eagles striker Josh Maja is closing in on a transfer to French Ligue 1 club Le Havre, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 27-year-old Nigerian marksman has been a free agent all summer following the expiration of his contract at English Championship club West Bromwich Albion. He endured a topsy-turvy stay with the Baggies, with injuries being his major bane.

After leaving The Hawthorns, Maja was linked with several Championship sides, including Stoke City, Watford, and Bristol City.

Super Eagles striker Josh Maja. Copyright: xMIxNewsx IMAGO

However, it appears he is not heading to any of those clubs — nor is he staying in England — as he is set to pitch his tent with Le Havre.

Although many fans did not see this French switch coming, it is hardly a surprise, as Maja is no stranger to French football.

He spent two years at Bordeaux before moving to West Brom in 2023, registering 29 goals and nine assists in 93 total appearances during his career.

In this article, we dive into the key details of the transfer.

Nigeria and West Brom forward Josh Maja. Photo by IMAGO

Breakdown of Josh Maja’s Le Havre Transfer

Josh Maja is valued at €4.5 million on Transfermarkt, but as a free agent, he joins the Ligue 1 club at zero cost. Consequently, Le Havre will not pay a transfer fee to secure his services.

The agreed contract duration is two years with the option of an extra year. This is clearly a cautious approach from the club. Given Maja’s recurring injury history and streaky form, the hierarchy is playing it safe.

Sky Bet Championship Josh Maja of West Bromwich Albion celebrates scoring a goal from the penalty spot during the Sky Bet Championship match between West Bromwich Albion and Wrexham at The Hawthorns, West Bromwich, on April 3, 2026. — Josh Maja of West Bromwich Albion. Copyright: ImagoxMIxNewsx

Furthermore, Le Havre barely survived relegation last season, so it is understandable that they are being tactful with the contracts they hand out.

During his time at West Brom, Maja’s annual salary was €1.035 million, which translates to around €20,000 per week.

With this move to Le Havre, it remains to be seen whether he will take a pay cut. Currently, the highest earners at the French club are Lloris Gautier and Abdoulaye Touré, who both take home €1.8 million annually, meaning the club certainly has the financial capacity to match his previous wages.

Nonetheless, official confirmation of his new salary details is yet to be released.

Given the shortage of quality strikers at the club, Maja will be expected to play a pivotal role for Le Havre under the tutelage of manager Didier Digard next season.