Josh Maja is now officially a free-agent with Ligue 2 outfit Bordeaux confirming that the Rangers target has left the Matmut Atlantique after failing to agree terms on a contract extension.
With Cyriel Dessers set to become Rangers’ third new attacker of the summer window – joining Abdallah Sima and Sam Lammers at Ibrox – you would have been forgiven for assuming this would bring an end to the club’s pursuit of both Josh Maja and Feyenoord frontman Danilo.
But perhaps not.
According to the Scottish Sun, Rangers are making an improved offer for Danilo. Their interest in Maja, meanwhile, also appears to be independent of that Dessers deal (Rangers Review). A second ‘number nine’ may still be required on the blue side of Glasgow with Antonio Colak – reportedly a target for Weder Bremen – potentially set to follow Alfredo Morelos out the door over the coming weeks.
Rangers target Josh Maja becomes a free-agent
Maja scored 17 goals for Bordeaux last season. But after Les Girondins finished third in Ligue 2 – missing out on promotion – the former Sunderland youngster has opted against extending his stay in Wine Country.
“FC Girondins de Bordeaux would like to salute the passage of Josh,” reads a statement on the club’s official website.
“(He) arrived at 20, he reached a milestone in his life as a player and as a man. He leaves leaving a very positive memory, with 29 goals and 9 assists in 92 appearances.
“We wish him the best for the rest of his professional career, hoping that he will blossom fully in his next adventure.
“Thanks Josh!”
Maja’s free-agent status means he is obviously far more affordable than Danilo, as far as Rangers are concerned.
The latter will cost somewhere in the region of £7 million; Eredivisie champions Feyenoord under no immediate pressure to sell after letting captain Orkun Kokcu join Benfica for around £25 million.
