Everton and Nottingham Forest are two of the clubs reportedly keen on the Celtic star.
A Celtic player exiting Parkhead for a Premier League side like Everton or Nottingham Forest has been branded a probability this summer.
The Hoops have agreed a contract extension with midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain but that’s all the incoming business Martin O’Neill’s side have conducted so far. Outgoings could soon beckon and Daizen Maeda’s strong performances with Japan at the World Cup will only heighten exit rumours around the forward.
He almost left Celtic last summer and a departure from the Premiership champions could arrive this time around. Reports in the Far East have relayed Everton, Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Brentford interest alongside claims a move for as much as £20m is likely to be in the offing for Maeda. Arne Engels and Benjamin Nygren are others linked with moving to England.
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Who could Daizen Maeda join this summer
A report relayed by The Chosun states on the interested parties: “Brentford has been the most proactive. Everton has also shown steady interest. Manager David Moyes is seeking a versatile forward capable of playing both wings and central positions, and Maeda is reportedly viewed as a suitable fit for the team's tactical needs. Nottingham Forest has entered the race. Fulham is another candidate.
“Maeda, who played a key role for Celtic in the 2025–26 season and proved his competitiveness at the World Cup, is now highly likely to join the Premier League this summer. His quick penetrating runs and strong forward pressing are particularly seen as aligning well with the tactical demands of several EPL clubs.”
In the meantime, the forward will take a break, after Japan’s World Cup exit at the hands of Brazil. Boss Hajime Moriyasu said: "It would have been possible for me to lead the team to victory by managing the cards better. I deeply regret the defeat.
Daizen Maeda of Celtic vies with Callum Slattery of Motherwellplaceholder image
Daizen Maeda of Celtic vies with Callum Slattery of Motherwell | Getty Images
How are Celtic’s pre-season preparations going?
“Although we ended up with a regrettable result, I felt that we could compete with global soccer powers based on what we have built up throughout the history of Japanese soccer. If we continue to grow in this way, we could reach the top of the world someday. I need some time to rest and reflect on the tournament. That's all that has been decided at this point."
Back at Lennoxtown and stars not on international duty are being put through their paces as part of Celtic’s pre-season programme. They face Irish side Shelbourne in the days ahead with minutes for stars sought and first-team coach Stephen McManus said to club media: “The boys have come in and worked really well. It’s been a tough week.
“It always is the first week of pre-season, but the lads have come back in really good shape. They’ve enjoyed the break and now they’re looking forward to the games coming thick and fast. It’s definitely evolved slightly. The principles still remain the same. It’s about getting players ready for the first game of the season, getting minutes into their legs and making sure they stay injury free.”
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