Leeds United are among a host of Premier League clubs eyeing a January move for Celtic forward Daizen Maeda, according to TEAMtalk.
The Elland Road side, along with the likes of Brentford and Everton, are believed to be closely monitoring the 28-year-old’s situation in Celtic Park, with Maeda open to changing clubs mid-campaign.
The Japan international has reportedly informed the club of his desire to depart in the January transfer window, putting five Premier League clubs on red alert.
Maeda was heavily linked with a Celtic Park exit last summer and was reportedly left frustrated when the Hoops rebuffed offers from several English clubs.
Celtic are claimed to be open for Maeda’s exit at the turn of the year ‘if the price is right’ and are already eyeing potential replacements for the 28-year-old, who is under contract until June 2027 at the club.
Leeds Eyeing Move for Daizen Maeda
Daizen Maeda warms up in training gear
According to TEAMtalk, Leeds could face competition from the likes of Brentford, Everton, Wolves and West Ham for Maeda, who is valued at around £15m by Celtic.
The Japan international, who joined the Hoops from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2022, has struggled to find his shooting boots this season, netting just four times in 17 appearances across all competitions.
Maeda registered his first goal under interim boss Martin O’Neil last week, helping Celtic secure a 4-0 win over Kilmarnock in the Premiership.
The 'world-class' 28-year-old scored his 66th goal for the club in 175 appearances, during which he also provided 30 assists and helped Celtic win eight major trophies, including four league titles.
Looking to secure another Premiership crown this term, Celtic have been below their best so far, winning just seven of their 11 games and sitting seven points below leaders Hearts.
Leeds, meanwhile, are just 16th in the Premier League after 11 matches and have been underwhelming in attack this term, scoring just 10 times so far – the second-worst result in the division.
The striker trio of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Lukas Nmecha and Joel Piroe have just three Premier League goals between them, which could force Leeds to dip into the market again for reinforcements up front.
Daniel Farke’s side have signed both Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha this summer as well as added winger Noah Okafor, who has scored twice in the league so far.