West Ham signing this 22-year-old African ace would be a smart long-term coup for Moyes

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Why Josh Maja would be a shrewd capture for West Ham

According to Sunderland Echo, Josh Maja has been linked with a move to West Ham. The former Sunderland striker has often been tipped to move back to England and this time, it is West Ham who have shown interest. David Moyes and Maja have worked together previously during their time at Sunderland.

West Ham’s striker search continues

After struggling for over a year and a half, Sebastien Haller finally left West Ham for Ajax (h/t Sky Sports). Haller never really looked settled during his stay in London and even failed to oust Michail Antonio from the striker role.

However, his exit makes it a bit problematic for David Moyes, who now has Antonio as the only recognised centre-forward in the side. Having just one striker in the side is a sure-fire recipe for disaster, especially when you consider West Ham’s recent seasons and how they have struggled sometimes.

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West Ham United’s French striker Sebastien Haller chases the ball during the English League Cup second round football match between West Ham United and Charlton Athletic at The London Stadium in east London on September 15, 2020. (Photo by ADAM DAVY/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

It is imperative that they reinvest the funds from Haller’s sale to bring in a replacement. Someone who can not only add depth to the attack but also challenge Antonio for the starting role in the side.

Maja can be a decent option for West Ham

From the looks of it, West Ham could immediately do with some reinforcements in the forward line. Josh Maja ticks the box in that regard. The Nigerian has always been regarded as a player with potential ever since his days in Sunderland’s academy. The Hammers should definitely look to go for his services in January.

The 22-year-old proved himself to be a cut above the rest in the English third-tier a couple of seasons back and has progressed by leaps and bounds since moving to France.

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Bordeaux’s English forward Josh Maja celebrates after scoring a goal during the French L1 football match between FC Girondins de Bordeaux (FCGB) and Nimes (NO) at the Matmut Atlantique stadium in Bordeaux, southwestern France, on December 3, 2019. (Photo by NICOLAS TUCAT/AFP via Getty Images)

Regular game time at Bordeaux has allowed Maja to make a real impression and the Hammers should look to phase him into the mix should a move materialise in the near future.

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Josh Maja has already started to deliver on his potential at Bordeaux and still has his best years ahead of him at 22. West Ham ideally need a striker to get those goals flowing and fast. They are in dire need of another striker to back Antonio and provide competition. Hence, the addition of Maja could be a vital one for them.