Daizen Maeda’s January Exit Stance “Confirmed” as Celtic Prepare for Potential Departure
Celtic winger Daizen Maeda is reportedly ready to push for a January move away from Parkhead, just months after the club blocked his summer exit.
The 28-year-old Japan international, who has 18 months left on his contract, is said to have informed Celtic as early as February that he wished to explore new opportunities. Speaking back in September, Maeda admitted he had agreed personal terms with another club before Celtic decided to keep him.
“I received an offer,” Maeda said. “I told the club I wanted to take the next step, but because Celtic couldn’t strengthen the squad, they said they couldn’t let me go. Personally, I was ready to take on the challenge. The national team delayed my joining, and I asked until the final day, but it didn’t happen.”
Although a deal appeared to be in place, Celtic refused to sanction the transfer before the summer window closed.
Now, with renewed interest in Maeda heading into the new year, sources close to the player have confirmed he plans to push for an exit when the market reopens in January, according to Record Sport. Celtic are reportedly aware of his stance and have begun drawing up a list of potential replacements ahead of what is expected to be a busy window.
Since joining from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2022, Maeda has been a consistent performer for the Hoops, known for his pace and work rate. However, his desire for a new challenge could signal the end of his time in Glasgow.
With AFCON absences and attacking injuries already posing a selection headache for Brendan Rodgers, Maeda’s possible departure would create another major issue for the Celtic boss midway through the campaign.
Replacing a player of Maeda’s energy and influence will be no easy task.
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