According to British media TEAMtalk, Japanese forward Dairan Maeda has informed Celtic that he hopes to leave in the winter window. Brentford, Leeds United and Everton are one of the five Premier League clubs interested in him.
Daran Maeda performed well in the Scottish Premier League last season, scoring 33 goals and 12 assists. Since joining from Yokohama Marinos in 2022, his performance has been amazing. Maeda's pace, relentless work and precise finishing played a key role in Celtic's domestic double win last season. Daran Maeda can also stretch the defense and connect the game with excellent passing.
Sources close to the players revealed that Daran Maeda was frustrated that Celtic rejected offers from multiple Premier League teams this summer. Maeda, who is worth around £15 million, believes he was sidelined in contract renewal negotiations and missed out on a move to the Premier League, which would have boosted his chances of being selected for the national team and giving him a chance to participate in the 2026 World Cup.
An insider revealed: "He gave everything for the Celtics, but he needs a new challenge. The rejection hurt him very much. He has made it clear: Either leave in January, or it will be over."
The Celtics are stepping up their search for a new coach and now face a dilemma. The roster is already stretched thin due to injuries and the recent departures of Torugo Furuhashi and Adam Idah. Losing Daran Maeda could derail their hopes of a fourth consecutive title.
The club is reluctantly willing to sell if the price is right, and plans to bring in players from Japan, the Championship and across Europe to mitigate losses.
Former coach Rodgers praised Maeda's "world-class" contribution at his last press conference, but avoided talking about his future, suggesting that there would be "exciting developments" in the market.
The battle for Maeda Daran is intensifying. Brentford actively scouted him last summer and are currently leading the charge, with a system that suits his energy perfectly. Brentford considered him an ideal fit for the team's tactical system and offered him an attractive contract.
Everton is eager to strengthen Moyes' forward strength. They pay close attention to Daran Maeda and take a fancy to his ability to play three frontcourt positions.
The Wolves are facing a serious threat of relegation and regard Daran Maeda as a versatile player who can help them avoid relegation. West Ham coach Nuno is interested in his speed and relentless pressing, hoping that he can complement Bowen.
Leeds United are fighting for Premier League relegation under the leadership of Daniel Falke and are also believed to be interested in a potential transfer of Daran Maeda.
For Maeda Daran, this transfer represents a dream leap. From J-League obscurity to Celtic star, his next chapter could cement his status as Japan's next superstar.