Everton and Nottingham Forest have both been linked with a transfer for the Celtic star.
A former Premier League CEO has claimed to know who is leading the race for an in-demand Celtic star.
Keith Wyness, now a consultant within football, was previously chief at Aberdeen, Aston Villa and Everton. It’s the latter, alongside Brentford, Fulham and Nottingham Forest, who are all believed to have an interest in signing Daizen Maeda this summer after the Japan international shone for his nation at the World Cup.
Maeda almost left the Hoops last summer but stayed the season and helped Martin O’Neill’s side clinch a Premiership and Scottish Cup double. Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, Wyness has heard through the grapevine of Everton enquiries, but is of the belief that Brentford are closest to pulling off a deal ahead of the Toffees, Fulham and Nottingham Forest.
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Who could sign Daizen Maeda this summer?
He said: “I think Brentford are the ones that are way ahead. I expect that one could get done. Everton have certainly been enquiring, but I think Brentford are by far the favourite. I'd expect him to go there. I think that's also going to be a good move for him.
“We've seen Brentford have a lot of success over the years bringing forwards through, and that’s where I expect him to end up. If issues arise then then there's other options, but I think that's where I'd expect him down there at the Gtech.”
Maeda has said this month though that his age, a forward renowned for pressing and speed at 28, could wreck his chances. He said: “I’ve always said that I want to play in the Premier League, but I think I’ll just play wherever I am. In terms of timing (for a transfer), I think this is the right time. But you never know what will happen… Of course, I’ve been saying ever since I went to Celtic that I want to play in the Premier League. But it’s difficult because I’m 28 years old, and when I talk to people, it’s kind of a ‘hmm’ feeling. But you never know what kind of offer will come. But no matter which team it is, I think I’ll just keep going.”
Daizen Maeda was on the scoresheet for Japan in their 1-1 draw with Sweden.placeholder image
Daizen Maeda was on the scoresheet for Japan in their 1-1 draw with Sweden. | Getty Images
Who wants to sign Daizen Maeda 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.”
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