Daizen Maeda finished up the season with Yokohama Marinos this weekend amid speculation he’s about to join Celtic.

The Japanese star finished top goalscorer of the J-League and has worked with Ange Postecoglou in Japan before the Australian took over at Celtic.

Maeda spoke after finishing the season, as cited by SunSport.

Maeda said: “I never imagined I would end the season as top scorer in the league. I feel I have been able to prove I was a good signing here.

“As always it was great to score, but I would have liked to have ended the season with a win.

“I’ve had a great season although I am disappointed we never managed to win the title, but on a personal level, I am very proud I was able to finish as top scorer.

“I always want more goals. You can never score enough.

Speaking about the future, the player clearly sounds like he’s ready to leave:

“I believe this team can go on and have a great season next year too. Whatever happens, Marinos are a great club.

“I’ve never hidden my ambition to play in Europe. When I tried before in Portugal, Covid ruined it for me.

“This season has changed everything for me. Goals and a call-up for my country. For me, it’s just the start.”

Celtic have been heavily tipped to sign the striker on a loan with an option to buy in the summer. Maeda would be a perfect signing for the Hoops and someone who can carry the load with Kyogo.

Kyogo would have no doubt given Maeda a run for his money in the J-League had he stuck around back in August. However, the Japanese star signed for Celtic and has been a revelation. Kyogo has paved the way for more signings to come into the club from the J-League.

Celtic could be in a position to put some new signings into the squad for the new year derby, if they get things in place before January.