Celtic could be facing a massive decision this summer as Daizen Maeda becomes the subject of growing transfer interest from across Europe and beyond.
Fenerbahce have reportedly identified Maeda as a target as they search for wide options this summer, tabling an opening offer of over €10 million. However, Turkish sources claim Celtic swiftly rejected the approach, with the Hoops s said to value the winger at a minimum of £25 million.
Jose Mourinho’s side are not alone in their admiration for Maeda. Tottenham Hotspur have once again been linked with the winger, despite Ange Postecoglou’s recent departure from the managerial role.
According to 67 Hail Hail transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey, there is growing interest in Maeda from several Premier League clubs, with Brentford also monitoring the situation closely.
Bailey said: “I’m told that Maeda is a name that’s come up at Fenerbahce, like Marcus Tavernier and a few others. It underlines the fact they’re looking for a winger.
“I think Maeda is quite a special player to be fair. I think Maeda is one of those players who when he gets to England – which I think he might – people will be like, ‘why on Earth didn’t we sign this player two years ago?’.
“He is on Brentford’s radar. Tottenham have looked at Maeda as well at points. There’s an awful lot of teams who have looked at Maeda but just haven’t pulled the trigger.
“I do think that he’s more likely to go than Nicolas Kuhn, from what I’m told. Kuhn had a good start, but he tailed off a little bit. Obviously Celtic are not going to let them both go.
“From what I understand, it’s more likely Maeda leaves, and I think he is looking at it.
“He’s got some big clubs after him, Fenerbahce obviously being one. I think the Saudi Pro League enquired as well, he was on their long list. But there is Premier League interest there in Maeda.”
Maeda’s work rate, energy and adaptability have made him a huge part of Brendan Rodgers’ starting XI since his return to the club in 2023. His ability to play across the front line, combined with his relentless pressing, has made him a nearly impossible player to replace.
Celtic’s valuation reflects not only Maeda’s importance on the pitch, but also the difficulty of finding a like-for-like replacement in the current market. At 27, he is approaching his prime years, and any sale would need to make financial sense for the club.
The summer transfer window isn’t even open yet, but already Maeda’s name is one of the most talked about at Celtic. Whether the club are forced into a major decision may depend on how serious the interest becomes in the weeks ahead.
