Celtic Face Decision on Daizen Maeda as European Clubs Show Interest | OneFootball

Daizen Maeda’s Future at Celtic Uncertain as European Clubs Circle

Celtic’s impressive domestic and European campaign has seen Daizen Maeda emerge as one of their most influential players, but his performances have not gone unnoticed. As TEAMtalk reports, several top clubs from Germany and Italy are closely monitoring the Japanese international, with a summer transfer a possibility.

While Maeda remains committed to Celtic and has not pushed for an exit, the club’s history of selling players at peak value raises questions about whether he could be next. With his contract running until 2027, Celtic are in a strong negotiating position, but as always in football, money talks.

European Interest Growing

“Celtic are at risk of losing star man Daizen Maeda as several European sides are considering moves for the winger this summer, TEAMtalk understands.”

At 27, Maeda is in his prime and has been pivotal to Brendan Rodgers’ side this season. His 36 goal contributions across all competitions highlight his attacking influence, while his relentless pressing makes him a nightmare for opposition defenders.

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Sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk that clubs from Germany and Italy are tracking Maeda’s situation and could make a move this summer. Given Celtic’s previous willingness to sell key players at the right price, there is every chance the club will entertain offers.

Celtic’s Contract Plans and Transfer Strategy

Despite the speculation, TEAMtalk states that Celtic are keen to extend Maeda’s contract before the end of the season to secure his value ahead of the summer transfer window.

“TEAMtalk understands that Celtic are keen to renew Maeda’s contract before the end of this season, to secure his value for the upcoming transfer window.”

Celtic recently sold Kyogo Furuhashi for £10m in January, and sources indicate that it will take significantly more to lure Maeda away. Given his impact, age, and contract length, the Hoops are in a position to demand a sizeable transfer fee should they decide to cash in.

Although Maeda is happy at Celtic and appreciates the club’s ambition to improve in Europe, he has the desire to compete at the highest level possible. A move to a top European league would certainly appeal, but only if the opportunity is right.

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Brendan Rodgers’ Stance

Rodgers remains hopeful of keeping his key players, including Maeda. However, he has acknowledged that offers are inevitable when a player is performing well, particularly in the Champions League.

“I would think he would [receive offers]. I think a number of the players will because of their efficiency and their work,” Rodgers said.

“If you’re doing it at a Champions League level, then you’re showing that you can do it on that stage.”

Rodgers’ comments indicate an awareness of Celtic’s standing in the football hierarchy. While the club has ambitions to progress in Europe, it is also realistic about the financial pressures that come with competing at the top. If a major offer arrives, Celtic may find it difficult to refuse.

Photo: IMAGO

Future Uncertain but Options Open

Celtic have a clear decision to make regarding Maeda’s future. With a contract extension in the works, they could secure his long-term commitment or at least protect his transfer value. However, if a significant bid arrives, history suggests they may consider selling.

With Maeda’s form showing no signs of slowing down, interest from European clubs is unlikely to fade. Whether he stays to help Celtic push for Champions League knockout stage football next season or moves on to a new challenge remains to be seen.

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For Celtic fans, the idea of losing Maeda in his prime will be a difficult one to accept. His work rate, pressing, and attacking output have made him a vital player under Rodgers, and finding a direct replacement would not be easy.

However, Celtic have always operated within a financial model that involves selling key assets when the time is right. If a club from Germany or Italy offers a significant transfer fee, it could be a sensible move financially—especially if that money is reinvested into the squad.

On the flip side, Celtic’s European ambitions must be considered. If they are serious about progressing in the Champions League, they need to retain their best players rather than selling them at peak value. Maeda has been instrumental in their attacking play, and letting him go could set the squad back ahead of another crucial season.

However, there will be hope that Rodgers can convince him to stay—at least for one more season. If Celtic can push further in Europe and continue their domestic dominance, Maeda may see his future at Parkhead for the long term. But if the right offer comes, history suggests the club won’t stand in his way.