Celtic have reportedly rejected an opening offer from Turkish side Fenerbahce for Daizen Maeda, insisting it will take a fee in the region of £21 million to prise him away from Glasgow.
The Turkish club, who are preparing for life after Allan Saint-Maximin, are said to have lodged an initial bid of €10 million (£8.4 million) for the Japanese international. However, reports from Sozcu in Turkey suggest Celtic showed no interest in engaging with the proposal, considering it far below the player’s current valuation.
Maeda had a standout season for Celtic in 2024/25, hitting 33 goals in 52 games across all competitions. After Kyogo left for Rennes in January, Maeda stepped up as the main striker and never looked back. He led the line with energy and consistency, finishing as the Hoops’ top scorer and picking up a number end-of-season awards along the way.
Fenerbahce clearly rate him highly and are trying to get a deal done, but Celtic have reportedly made their stance clear, they want £21 million or they’re not interested. Whether the Turkish side are willing to come back with a serious offer remains to be seen.
Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with Maeda, although their situation is complicated by the uncertainty surrounding Ange Postecoglou’s future. The Australian, who brought Maeda to Celtic in early 2022 for just over £1 million, could be on his way out of Spurs despite guiding them to Europa League success last term. If he remains, Spurs may decide to enter the race, particularly with Maeda’s familiarity with Postecoglou’s style of football.
With the Scottish transfer window set to open next month, Celtic will need to manage both potential departures and new signings as they aim to balance success at home and in Europe while shaping their squad for the season ahead.
