Le Havre's swift strike: free‑agent Josh Maja fills Soumaré’s void

Le Havre FC acted swiftly to replace the centre‑forward gap left by Issa Soumaré’s free‑agent move to Rennes, while Nigeria striker Josh Maja arrives on a free transfer to fill that void for the upcoming Ligue 1 campaign in France.

Issa Soumaré departed Le Havre for Rennes as a free agent, leaving the club with a clear need for a new striker.

Le Havre officially announced the signing of 27‑year‑old Josh Maja, who joined on a free transfer after his three‑year contract with West Bromwich Albion expired this summer.

During his spell in England, the Nigeria international was a regular in the EFL Championship, gaining valuable experience at that level.

Maja returns to France after three campaigns with Bordeaux – first from 2019 to 2021 and again in the 2022‑2023 season – where he scored 16 goals in Ligue 2.

The striker signed a one‑year contract with Le Havre FC that includes an option for a second season, and he will wear the No. 9 jersey, giving the club flexibility while adding proven goal‑scoring experience.

Known as the Normans, Le Havre are expected to fight to maintain their Ligue 1 status beyond May 2027, and strengthening the forward line is seen as crucial to that objective.

Maja will look to bring his experience to the squad as the team prepares for the remainder of the campaign, with his integration deemed key to help Le Havre avoid a relegation battle.