Daizen Maeda finished up the season with Yokohama Marinos this weekend amid speculation he’s about to join Celtic.
The Japanese star finished top goalscorer of the J-League and has worked with Ange Postecoglou in Japan before the Australian took over at Celtic.
Maeda spoke after finishing the season, as cited by SunSport.
Maeda said: “I never imagined I would end the season as top scorer in the league. I feel I have been able to prove I was a good signing here.
“As always it was great to score, but I would have liked to have ended the season with a win.
“I’ve had a great season although I am disappointed we never managed to win the title, but on a personal level, I am very proud I was able to finish as top scorer.
“I always want more goals. You can never score enough.
Speaking about the future, the player clearly sounds like he’s ready to leave:
“I believe this team can go on and have a great season next year too. Whatever happens, Marinos are a great club.
“I’ve never hidden my ambition to play in Europe. When I tried before in Portugal, Covid ruined it for me.
“This season has changed everything for me. Goals and a call-up for my country. For me, it’s just the start.”
Celtic have been heavily tipped to sign the striker on a loan with an option to buy in the summer. Maeda would be a perfect signing for the Hoops and someone who can carry the load with Kyogo.
Kyogo would have no doubt given Maeda a run for his money in the J-League had he stuck around back in August. However, the Japanese star signed for Celtic and has been a revelation. Kyogo has paved the way for more signings to come into the club from the J-League.
Celtic could be in a position to put some new signings into the squad for the new year derby, if they get things in place before January.
