Daizen Maeda has confessed that he wants Celtic to lower his price tag to make a transfer easier, as Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town push for his signature. The Japan international, who impressed at the World Cup, has long harboured a desire to play in England's top flight.
Maeda's Transfer Stance
Speaking to Japanese TV programme PUSH Sports, Maeda was asked if his rising market value after the World Cup would impact his future. He replied: "I wish it would go down even more. If it goes down, it will be easier for me to transfer teams. So I don't want it to go up."
The 28-year-old forward admitted a switch to the English Premier League is his "dream." He said: "Playing in the Premier League has been my dream for a long time, so I think I have to work even harder to get there."
Previous Attempts to Leave
Last summer, Maeda looked destined to depart Celtic on deadline day and even emptied his locker at Lennoxtown. Then-boss Brendan Rodgers revealed after the window closed that the attacker had expressed a desire for a fresh challenge back in February 2025. However, the move to Bundesliga side Wolfsburg collapsed on the final day after Adam Idah left the club, leaving Celtic without a recognised striker.
Following the failed transfer, Maeda's form dropped drastically before he regained his status as a key player for the Hoops, scoring in six consecutive games, including in the title deciders against Hearts and Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup final.
Ipswich Interest
Record Sport understands that Premier League new boys Ipswich Town are pushing for a deal and are keen to wrap it up quickly to bring Maeda to Portman Road. The Tractor Boys are eager to secure the forward's services as they prepare for their top-flight return.
Maeda also looked ahead to the future, saying: "I believe that the next World Cup is at the end of the road if I cherish each and every day of playing soccer, so first and foremost, I want to cherish each and every day in front of me."
