Report: Everton set to battle Leeds United in the race to sign Celtic star | OneFootball

Celtic Face January Turmoil as Premier League Clubs Circle Their Star Forward

Rising Tension Around a Key Celtic Talent

Celtic have grown accustomed to nurturing game-changers, but few have risen as sharply, or as explosively, as Daizen Maeda. TeamTalk report that the Japanese forward has formally asked to leave in January, sending shockwaves through a squad already stretched by departures and uncertainty. The news arrives at the worst possible moment for a club trying to protect domestic dominance while navigating transition.

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Maeda’s numbers last season underline why his loss would be profound. Thirty-three goals and twelve assists across competitions made him pivotal to Celtic’s double, and his blend of electric pace and relentless pressing made him the focal point of their attack. He has been indispensable in high-intensity Old Firm matches, unsettling back lines and dictating the tempo of transitions.

Yet underneath the success lay growing frustration. Sources cited by TeamTalk state that the winger felt overlooked during contract discussions and disappointed when Celtic resisted Premier League interest last summer. At 28, with his value at around £15 million, he sees a narrow window to take the next step and raise his international profile ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

“He’s given everything for Celtic, but he needs a fresh challenge,” one insider claimed. “The rejection stung, and he’s made it clear: January or bust.”

Premier League Clubs Ready to Act

The list of suitors is long and competitive. Brentford, who tracked Maeda closely throughout the previous window, are viewed as frontrunners. Their recruitment model, built on physical profiles, tactical aggression and versatility, aligns perfectly with Maeda’s strengths. TeamTalk suggest the Bees are prepared to return with a structured deal that appeals to both player and club.

Everton are also firm admirers. With David Moyes working to reshape the forward options, the Japanese international’s ability to operate anywhere across the front line represents a significant attraction. His off-the-ball intelligence, described by one source as “world-class in phases,” suits the tactical flexibility the new regime is trying to implement.

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West Ham and Wolves remain in the mix, each for different reasons. Wolves are fighting to avoid the drop and view Maeda as a swing factor for survival, while West Ham are analysing him as a high-energy complement to Jarrod Bowen. Leeds United, seeking momentum under Daniel Farke, have also been linked should circumstances align.

Celtic Left with a Difficult Decision

Celtic’s situation is complicated further by a managerial search and a series of squad shortages. Recent exits, including those of Kyogo Furuhashi and Adam Idah, have already thinned the attacking department. Allowing Maeda to leave would create a void that requires immediate and decisive recruitment.

Former manager Brendan Rodgers hinted at the importance of the player before his departure. Praising Maeda’s contributions, he described them as “world-class,” although he stopped short of committing to any future guarantees, instead pointing towards “exciting developments” on the horizon.

Celtic are preparing contingency plans. TeamTalk report that reinforcements across Europe, the Championship and the J-League are being assessed. But finding like-for-like replacements, particularly those capable of replicating Maeda’s intensity, will not be straightforward.

With January approaching, the club face a strategic dilemma. Cashing in now offers financial clarity, but losing a cornerstone of their title push carries risk. Some inside Parkhead fear that this may be another moment where timing and ambition collide.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This situation feels like an opportunity that Everton must not overlook. Maeda’s profile aligns precisely with what fans want to see added to the forward line: energy, directness, unpredictability and a work rate that never falters. Everton have lacked a consistent wide threat capable of stretching defences, and Maeda’s skill set would instantly elevate the attacking dynamic.

Supporters would also appreciate the versatility he brings. His comfort across the front three, combined with the defensive diligence he shows out of possession, makes him ideal for a Moyes system that values organisation and transitional sharpness. Everton fans have long admired players who commit fully to the cause, and Maeda’s intensity would resonate strongly at Goodison Park.

The price tag, rumoured at around £15 million, would feel reasonable to fans given his goal contributions and European pedigree. However, there will be nerves around competition. Brentford’s recruitment pull and Wolves’ desperation present credible threats, and Everton cannot afford to stall or hesitate. Financial constraints may also concern supporters who wonder whether the club can match the most ambitious offers.

Still, optimism would dominate. This is the type of signing that signals ambition without recklessness. Evertonians would see Maeda as a player entering his peak and capable of making an immediate difference. If the club win this race, supporters would view it as a major step in strengthening the attack and building towards long-term stability.