English club Everton is set to pursue Celtic forward Daizen Maeda in the upcoming January transfer window. The 28-year-old Japan international has caught attention with his strong play, and sources indicate Everton plans to make an approach soon, amid talks of Maeda possibly seeking a new challenge.
This move comes as Everton looks to boost its attack under manager Sean Dyche, who aims to climb the Premier League table after a mixed start to the 2025-2026 season. Maeda, known for his speed and goal-scoring ability, could fill a key role, but Celtic may demand a high fee to let him go.
Maeda’s Rise at Celtic and Current Form
Daizen Maeda joined Celtic in 2022 from Yokohama F. Marinos and quickly became a fan favorite. He helped the team win multiple Scottish Premiership titles and contributed in European competitions.
In the 2024-2025 season, Maeda scored 12 goals and provided 8 assists across all competitions before the November international break. His pace on the wing has been vital for Celtic’s high-pressing style.
Experts point out that Maeda’s work rate sets him apart. He covers more ground than most forwards in the league, averaging over 11 kilometers per match. This fits well with Everton’s need for energetic players to support stars like Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Recent reports suggest Maeda feels ready for a step up to the Premier League. His performances for Japan in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers have boosted his profile, drawing interest from clubs beyond Everton.
Everton’s Transfer Strategy and Challenges
Everton has faced financial limits in recent years due to profit and sustainability rules. The club sold players like Amadou Onana in summer 2025 to balance books, freeing up some funds for January deals.
Targeting Maeda makes sense as Everton seeks affordable talent with proven ability. The Toffees sit mid-table in the Premier League as of late November 2025, with goals hard to come by in key games.
However, competition is stiff. Clubs like Brentford, Leeds United, and Wolves have also shown interest in Maeda, according to recent posts on social media and football forums.
Everton must act fast, as Celtic values Maeda at around 15 million pounds. Negotiations could hinge on whether Celtic finds a quick replacement to avoid weakening their squad mid-season.
A potential deal might include add-ons based on Maeda’s performance, a common tactic in modern transfers.
Celtic’s Position on Maeda’s Future
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has praised Maeda’s contributions but hinted at openness to offers if they benefit the club. The Scottish giants are on track for another league title in 2025-2026, leading by five points as of now.
Losing Maeda could disrupt their attack, especially with injuries to other forwards. Celtic has scouted replacements, including players from Major League Soccer and Europe.
- Key factors in Celtic’s decision: Squad depth, with only two main strikers fit currently.
- Financial gain: Selling Maeda could fund new signings to strengthen defense and midfield.
- Player happiness: Maeda has expressed a desire to test himself in a top league, per interviews after Japan’s recent wins.
If a bid comes, Celtic might accept if it exceeds 12 million pounds, allowing them to reinvest quickly.
Potential Impact on Both Clubs
A move to Everton could transform Maeda’s career, exposing him to the intense Premier League spotlight. For Everton, adding his scoring touch might help avoid relegation worries and push for a top-10 finish.
Celtic, meanwhile, has a history of profiting from player sales, like the 2025 transfer of Matt O’Riley to Brighton for 25 million pounds. This pattern shows they can adapt and rebuild.
| Season | Goals | Assists | Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 8 | 5 | 35 |
| 2023-2024 | 10 | 7 | 40 |
| 2024-2025 | 12 | 8 | 18 |
| 2025-2026 (so far) | 5 | 3 | 12 |
This table highlights Maeda’s consistent improvement, making him a hot prospect.
Fans speculate on social media that Maeda’s style suits Everton’s counter-attacking play, drawing parallels to past successful transfers like Richarlison’s impact.
Broader Transfer Gossip in Scottish Football
Beyond Maeda, other rumors swirl. Everton was linked with Scotland’s Scott McTominay, but manager David Moyes called a 60 million pound move too expensive for Napoli’s midfielder.
Celtic faces injury woes, with defender Cameron Carter-Vickers doubtful for the 2026 World Cup due to an Achilles issue. This could affect their backline in upcoming matches.
In other news, Rangers’ executives received notable pay in 2025, sparking talks about club spending. Dundee denied bidding for Bohemians’ James Clarke, while Dundee United’s Craig Sibbald dreams of a Scotland call-up.
These stories show a busy January window ahead, with clubs like Everton and Celtic at the center.
What do you think about Everton’s chase for Maeda? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article to fellow football fans for more discussion.
