A blockbuster January swap is on the cards as Everton and Celtic eye a deal that could hand both clubs exactly what they’ve been missing

Everton are reportedly admirers of one of Celtic’s standout performers, Daizen Maeda, but the Scottish champions will not consider letting him leave unless a replacement is already secured. The Premier League side are eager to bolster their forward line in January and have identified Maeda as a key target, especially as the Japanese international is understood to be open to a move away from Glasgow.

Maeda, who joined Celtic permanently in 2022 after an impressive initial loan spell, has been a pivotal figure for the Hoops. Despite speculation over his future during the summer, no transfer materialised. With his deal running until 2027, Celtic still have the opportunity to cash in next year before the risk of him entering the final year of his contract.

According to Football Insider, Maeda remains keen on testing himself in the Premier League, and Everton are ready to make a move for the versatile 28-year-old. Celtic’s season has been more unsettled than usual, with the champions already halfway to matching last season’s defeat tally, and rivals Hearts mounting an unexpected title charge. For that reason, the club are reluctant to lose such an influential player until a replacement attacker has been secured.

Everton could, however, offer a like-for-like solution. Dwight McNeil is one player who could head in the opposite direction. The winger has had limited minutes this season, and with his contract also expiring in 2027, he may be available as part of a deal. While Everton may need to add cash to make the swap viable, McNeil remains a strong creative option, having produced five goals and eight assists last season despite an injury-hit campaign.

From Everton’s perspective, Maeda’s versatility is a major attraction. Able to play out wide or through the middle, he racked up an astonishing 33 goals last season across all competitions — the kind of output that could dramatically improve David Moyes’ frontline, which has struggled with the inconsistency of Beto and Thierno Barry.

Likewise, McNeil fits Celtic’s needs. He can operate on both wings, in midfield, or even up front, and has shown he can contribute goals and assists when given regular minutes. A move to Scotland could be exactly what he needs to revive his confidence.

In addition to strengthening both squads, a swap deal would allow Celtic and Everton to reinforce without committing to major spending — a significant advantage given both clubs’ limited financial flexibility heading into 2026.