NafisaThe Hoops’ top performer from last season is attracting interest from across Europe
In-demand Daizen Maeda has dropped a major hint that he could be set to stay at Celtic next season.
The 27-year-old enjoyed his most successful campaign since making his move to Celtic Park back in 2022 – with Ange Postecoglou taking him from his former side to Yokohama F. Marinos – netting 33 goals this term.
He also wrote his name in the club’s history books by bagging four Champions League goals this campaign—the most since Joe Craig in 1977/78 while scooping all of Scotland’s top Player of the Year awards.
That form as seen him linked with a move away from the Scottish Premiership leaders – with Postecoglou’s Tottenham touted as a potential destination alongside Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce.
Leeds United, Liverpool and West Ham have also been linked with an approach for the forward – but the man himself doesn’t appear to be in any rush to leave Celtic off he back of an impressive season.
Speaking to media in Japan, he said: “I was in great form both personally and with the team. I’d like to keep it up next season.
“I’m who I am because of my team. I’d like to thank my teammates, and above all, my family for supporting me so far.
“My career really took off here in Mito. When I first came to Mito, I thought, ‘No one can run at all!
“My forte is sprinting multiple times during a match and running for 90 minutes straight. I came to Mito and learned about not wanting to lose games.
Despite the stance, there are reports in the Turkish media that Fenerbahce are ready to step up their pursuit of the Hoops’ hero.
Fotomac reported last week that an “optimistic” £8.4million opening offer was being lined up for the Japan international.
However, Yeni Safak claim that boss Mourinho is pushing the club higher-ups to spend big on the player – claiming he is a “top target” for Fener and they are “ready” to follow the lead of the legendary boss.
It is reported that Celtic will demand at leas £25million for Maeda as they look to smash their transfer record sale for the second consecutive summer – following Matt O’Riley’s big-money departure for Brighton 12 months ago.
Nafisa
