Celtic are intensifying their pursuit of Elche striker Alvaro Rodriguez as they anticipate the potential departure of forward Daizen Maeda this summer, according to TEAMtalk. Japanese international Maeda has reportedly expressed a desire to explore opportunities in the Premier League, prompting the Scottish champions to seek a dynamic replacement.
Rodriguez, a 21-year-old Uruguayan, has impressed in La Liga since joining Elche permanently from Real Madrid last summer. The forward has demonstrated strong hold-up play, aerial ability, and a growing threat in front of goal, contributing seven goals and five assists in 34 league appearances this season. His performances have also attracted interest from several other European clubs, including Feyenoord, Ajax, and PSV.
Celtic view Rodriguez as a player with significant potential for long-term development. However, his current valuation, estimated between €10-€15million (up to £13m / $17.4m), could prove a stumbling block for the Hoops, particularly given Real Madrid’s inclusion of a substantial sell-on clause in any deal. The club is also simultaneously considering alternative options to manage their summer transfer budget.
Among those alternatives is Kasper Høgh of Bodø/Glimt, a Danish striker who has previously been linked with a move to Parkhead. Celtic have reportedly reignited their interest in Høgh, whose consistent goalscoring record in Norway and European competitions makes him an appealing and potentially more attainable target. The need for a versatile forward capable of pressing high and consistently contributing goals is paramount, given Maeda’s potential exit.
The Celtic recruitment team face a crucial summer window as they look to build a squad capable of competing for both domestic and European success. The arrival of a new striker will be vital, with both Rangers and Hearts also actively strengthening their own squads ahead of the upcoming season.
