Leyton Orient break record to sign Cork Jaze Kabia for club‑record fee

Leyton Orient have broken their transfer record to sign Cork forward Jaze Kabia on a three‑year contract, paying the biggest fee the Os have ever spent for a player. The striker arrives from Grimsby Town after netting 24 goals in 57 appearances during the 2025/26 League Two campaign, underscoring Leyton Orient’s belief in his goal‑scoring pedigree.

The transfer fee has not been disclosed, but Leyton Orient confirmed it is the largest amount the club has ever spent on a player. The three‑year contract underlines the Os’ belief in Kabia’s goal‑scoring pedigree and marks a significant investment for an English League One side.

Kabia arrives from Grimsby Town after netting 24 goals in 57 appearances during the 2025/26 League Two campaign. His prolific record demonstrates his ability to find the net consistently at a senior level.

Before joining Grimsby, Kabia featured for Cobh Ramblers, Shelbourne and Cork City, gaining experience across the Irish leagues. He also made headlines by scoring in the penalty shoot‑out that saw Grimsby shock Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, highlighting his knack for decisive moments.

“I’m absolutely buzzing,” Kabia told the Leyton Orient official website, expressing his excitement about the new chapter. He added, “I have had an amazing last two years where I have grown a lot and I’m hoping to bring all of that here to show the best version of me.”

He continued, “I have a habit for being in the right place at the right time and I feel like finishing is the strongest part of my game. I’m really excited and am itching to get started here.”

“It’s a statement having the number nine on your back, it carries weight and I like that kind of pressure. It gives me that extra motivation and I want to continue this club’s streak of having good goalscorers,” Kabia said.

Former Republic of Ireland Under‑21 international Tony Springett also joined Leyton Orient in the off‑season after leaving Norwich City, adding to a strong Irish contingent that already includes goalkeeper Killian Cahill, midfielder Ollie O’Neill and attacker Aaron Connolly in Richie Wellens’ first‑team squad.