Le Havre lead three-way Ligue 1 battle for Bournemouth’s Romain Faivre | OneFootball

Le Havre AC are hoping to steal a march on AJ Auxerre and FC Metz in the race to sign Romain Faivre, as the Bournemouth midfielder looks set for a return to Ligue 1 during the winter transfer window, L’Équipe report.

Currently contracted to AFC Bournemouth until 2028, Faivre is on loan at Al-Taawoun, but his stint in Saudi Arabia has proven short-lived. The 27-year-old has made just five appearances since joining in the summer, scoring once, and has not featured since October 23rd.Frustrated by his lack of playing time, Romain Faivre is keen to leave Saudi Arabia this month and relaunch his career back in France. The former Stade Brestois player remains a well-regarded attacking midfielder, capable of operating across the frontline, particularly on the right wing.Talks have already begun with Bournemouth, with negotiations centred on how much of Faivre’s salary would be covered by any prospective Ligue 1 suitor. Le Havre AC, currently 13th with 18 points after 17 matches, are hoping that sporting director Mathieu Bodmer can leverage the club’s relative stability to convince the player.

They face competition from AJ Auxerre, who sit 17th on 12 points, and bottom side FC Metz, also on 12 points. Auxerre may benefit from their strong relationship with Bournemouth, helped by the loan of Hamed Junior Traorè last season.GFFN | George Boxall