Celtic forward Daizen Maeda has once again made his desire to leave Parkhead this summer abundantly clear, with the Premier League firmly in his sights.
The 28-year-old first revealed his transfer intentions in the days leading up to Celtic’s title decider against Hearts on the final day of last season, sending shockwaves through the club.
Links with several top English sides, including Everton and Brentford, have continued to circulate since that initial bombshell and show no signs of fading.
Maeda is currently into the final year of his contract at Celtic, adding significant urgency to any transfer discussions that may take place this summer window.
The former Yokohama F. Marinos man featured in three of Japan’s four matches at the World Cup, scoring in the group stage draw before his side’s tournament ended.
Japan’s Blue Samurai were ultimately knocked out in the last 32 phase, suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat to Brazil, ending what had been a spirited campaign from the Asian nation.
Maeda used a press conference to officially unveil his first autobiography, titled “Gamble: Why Am I Running So Much?”, to reinforce his long-standing Premier League ambitions.
He said: “I’ve always said that I want to play in the Premier League, but I think I’ll just play wherever I am.”
He added: “In terms of timing (for a transfer), I think this is the right time. But you never know what will happen…”
The forward acknowledged that his age is a factor that gives some people pause, stating: “It’s difficult because I’m 28 years old, and when I talk to people, it’s kind of a ‘hmm’ feeling.”
Despite that uncertainty, Maeda remained characteristically resolute, saying: “But you never know what kind of offer will come. But no matter which team it is, I think I’ll just keep going.”
Celtic have not stood still in the transfer market, bolstering their attacking options with the £6 million capture of FK Qarabag striker Camilo Duran ahead of the new season.
Boss O’Neill has also confirmed that the club is in active talks to extend Kelechi Iheanacho’s stay at Parkhead, though the Nigeria international reportedly has competing offers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey.
The Premiership champions are clearly preparing for multiple scenarios up front, whether Maeda departs or remains in Glasgow beyond the summer window.
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