West Ham United forward Modibo Maiga has joined French Ligue 1 side Metz on a season-long loan deal with a view to a permanent move.
The 26-year-old striker joined the Hammers from Sochaux in 2012 but has not been a regular since arriving at Upton Park and spent the end of last season on loan at Queens Park Rangers.
Hammers manager Sam Allardyce has bolstered his striking options this summer with the additions of Enner Valencia, Mauro Zarate and Diafra Sakho.
Although Andy Carroll is injured, the Hammers still have Carlton Cole, meaning Maiga is surplus to requirements at Upton Park.
In 31 Premier League appearances for the Hammers, Maiga scored three goals for the Hammers, the last of which came against West Bromwich Albion in December of last year.
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