Sociedad, Celta target Maja

Forgotten Nigerian star Josh Maja has emerged as a major transfer target for La Liga clubs Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

According to the Spanish publication, Super Deporte, Sociedad are ready to battle Celta for the West Bromwich Albion forward during the January transfer window.

The Sky Blues, as Celta are fondly called, have been monitoring the Nigerian for a long time and have emerged as the leading candidate for the striker.

However, Sociedad’s interest in Maja means both sides will battle for the signature of the striker who has been instrumental for Carlos Corberán’s side.

According to Super Deporte, Celta Vigo are believed to be willing to match West Brom’s £16m valuation for the in-form striker.

So far this season, the 25-year-old has been in incredible form, scoring nine goals and providing an assist in 15 games.

Before the international break, the former Bordeaux striker hit the back of the net in two consecutive games.

He scored a crucial goal in the 1-1 draw against Luton Town, followed by the winner in the 2-1 victory over Hull City, ending West Brom’s eight-match winless run.

 Having played in the French League and in England, Maja could be tempted by a move to Spain where there are Nigerian players.

Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidera Ejuke joined Sevilla during the summer transfer window while Sadiq Umar plies his trade with Sociedad.

While he remains pivotal to West Brom’s promotion hopes, the potential £16m windfall might be difficult for the Championship side to reject.

Despite his club form, Maja has been overlooked by Nigeria’s head coach Augustine Eguavoen for the Super Eagles’ recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The forward has not represented his country since his 2019 debut against Ukraine, a puzzling decision given his resurgence.