Le Havre wage bill falls again as Blue Crow Sports Group maintains status quo | OneFootball

According to L'Équipe, Blue Crow Sports Group’s June takeover has not changed Le Havre’s cost base, with the wage bill and average salary falling again.

Last season Ligue One’s lowest average was €22,000 at Le Havre, down from €30,000 the previous year. Blue Crow’s 27 June arrival did not shift that trajectory.

Owners ordered a 15% payroll cut, the average fell to €20,000, and on 25 November the DNCG kept wage and transfer controls. In 2023-2024, loanee Mohamed Bayo earned €105,000 gross, ahead of Daler Kouziaïev on €80,000 and Samuel Grandsir near €60,000, all three have since left.

Blue Crow cleared debt but spending is unchanged. No purchases in the last two windows. HAC still works autonomously, including on data, yet financial limits meant the database could not be fully exploited and deals collapsed.

Supporters believe the club can adapt, leaning on its academy and prudence. With a budget around €25 million, Le Havre still face a gap of at least €10 million.

Jeff Luhnow said he understands fans want growth and capital, but DNCG rules apply. He added Blue Crow have injected funds that may not be visible, and revenues must rise to spend more on players.

Federation spokesman Yann Simon called the close season crucial, with questions over direction and key figures. He said this could be the first time several players are sold well, and whether investment increases should soon be clear.

Source: L'Équipe