Ipswich Submit Daizen Maeda Bid as Talks Begin

Celtic’s position over Daizen Maeda could soon be tested, with the Japan international now entering the final year of his contract and continuing to attract interest from England.

Martin O’Neill has already made clear that he would prefer to keep the forward at Parkhead. However, Celtic may have to consider a serious proposal rather than risk Maeda moving closer to the end of his deal without an extension.

The situation has now taken a fresh turn.

The Daily Record reports that Ipswich Town have submitted a bid for Maeda and opened discussions with Celtic over a possible transfer.

The newly promoted Premier League club are said to want the deal completed quickly, although the report does not disclose the size of the offer or indicate that Celtic have accepted it.

There is also no confirmation that personal terms have been discussed with Maeda.

The forward has spoken openly about his ambition to play in the Premier League, making Ipswich a potentially attractive option if the clubs can reach an agreement.

That does not mean Celtic will allow him to leave cheaply.

Maeda has become a major part of the side since joining from Yokohama F Marinos in January 2022. His pace, movement and relentless work without the ball give Celtic qualities that would be difficult to replace before the new season.

He can operate from the left or through the middle, while his goals during last season’s closing stages played an important part in the club’s domestic success.

Allowing him to depart would therefore add further pressure to Celtic’s recruitment work.

The Hoops have been linked with several attacking players this summer, including Haissem Hassan and Kasper Høgh, but neither potential move has been completed.

Any decision on Maeda may depend not only on Ipswich meeting Celtic’s valuation, but also on whether O’Neill believes an adequate replacement can be secured quickly.

For now, the reported bid represents the beginning of a potentially significant negotiation rather than confirmation that Maeda is leaving.

Ipswich’s desire to move quickly may force Celtic to clarify their position sooner than expected, with the Premiership campaign approaching and O’Neill still working to strengthen his squad.