Ipswich Town have opened talks with Celtic over a potential transfer for Japan international Daizen Maeda, with the newly-promoted Premier League club eager to secure a quick deal. The 28-year-old forward, who is in the final year of his contract at Celtic Park, has expressed a strong desire to test himself in England's top flight.
Ipswich Move Quickly for Maeda
According to Record Sport, the Tractor Boys have launched a bid for the wantaway World Cup star, and new Ipswich manager Gary O'Neil has identified Maeda as a top attacking target. Discussions are underway over a transfer fee, with the Blues keen to wrap up the deal swiftly to bring Maeda to Portman Road.
Maeda has been a fans' favourite at Celtic since his arrival under Ange Postecoglou four-and-a-half years ago. However, he is eager for a new challenge and has made it clear he wants to move to the Premier League. Last season, he was disappointed after a big-money switch to Wolfsburg fell through at the end of August, but he rallied in the final weeks to help Celtic secure a dramatic league and Scottish Cup double.
Maeda's Premier League Dream
Speaking to the press in his homeland, Maeda said: "I've always wanted to play in the Premier League ever since I went to Celtic, so I think this year might be my chance. My strongest desire is to play in the Premier League for at least a year. I haven't really thought about what comes after that. I think it's the best league, and I'm confident I can do it there, so that's why I want to take on the challenge."
He added: "There are certain strengths to being Japanese, and I believe that no matter which team I join, there will always be many who want me. I want to showcase those strengths of being Japanese. It's really not decided yet. It's about negotiations between Celtic and the other party... Until that's finalized, I still have one year left on my contract with Celtic. For me, it's simply that I want to play in the Premier League, and I don't care which team it is, I just want to play here. So, no matter which team it is, what I have to do won't change. I think that's the only thing that matters when it comes to fighting."
Celtic Boss's Stance
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill admitted earlier this month that he would prefer Maeda to see out the final 12 months of his deal but insisted he would not stand in the way of the cult hero should an acceptable bid be tabled. With Ipswich now making the first move, Maeda could finally fulfill his dream of playing in the English top-flight.
