Reports linking Daizen Maeda with a summer move to the Premier League have surfaced this week, with Liverpool and Arsenal named among the clubs reportedly monitoring the Japanese forward. The claims, attributed to TBR Football, suggest a growing interest in the Celtic star as the season draws to a close.
However, the timing of the rumour—just days before the final Glasgow derby of the season—raises serious questions about its credibility.
There is little evidence to suggest the journalist behind the story, Lucas Arnold has the track record or insider access to warrant the speculation being taken seriously. Even the price tag it states of £25m is the go to amount many media outlets use as a default when talking about the value of Celtic’s top players.
Maeda has been outstanding this season for Celtic, delivering his most productive spell since arriving at the club.
While traditionally used out wide, he’s been lethal in front of goal, leading the team’s scoring charts. His brace against Hibernian in the League Cup quarter-final back in August set the tone for a campaign built on relentless work rate and clinical finishing.
The 26-year-old’s versatility and intensity have been central to Brendan Rodgers’ system, with Maeda often deployed on the wing but contributing as effectively as a central striker. His tactical flexibility and tireless running make him an asset few managers would want to part with.
Maeda Will Have Suitors in the Summer
While no Celtic player is immune to interest from down south, this particular rumour has all the hallmarks of mischief-making, designed to unsettle ahead of a potentially title-defining derby. With the final meeting against Rangers scheduled for Sunday, distractions like this should be taken with more than a pinch of salt.
Celtic fans will hope Maeda remains focused on the pitch, where he’s been nothing short of exceptional. As always, CeltsAreHere will keep supporters informed of any genuine developments—but for now, the noise around Maeda looks more like gamesmanship than groundwork for a transfer.
