Ipswich Town have agreed a £10million deal to sign forward Daizen Maeda from Celtic, according to TEAMtalk. The Japan international is set to move to Portman Road after Ipswich decisively secured their priority attacking target, beating competition from several other clubs.
Personal terms have been agreed with Maeda, who entered the final year of his contract at Celtic Park this summer and indicated a desire to explore options outside of extending his stay with the Scottish champions. Ipswich’s ambitions and the opportunity to continue his career in English football were key factors in his decision.
Maeda scored 79 goals in 212 appearances for Celtic since joining from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2022, establishing himself as a key player due to his pace, work rate, and versatility. His impending departure generated interest from clubs across the Premier League and Championship, including Hull City, Fulham, Burnley, Birmingham City, and Wrexham.
However, Ipswich moved quickly to initiate negotiations and ultimately won the race for the 28-year-old’s signature. Maeda is the latest addition to Ipswich’s attacking reinforcements this summer, joining Emerson from Toulouse and with Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu also nearing a £20million move.
These signings demonstrate the club’s commitment to supporting new manager Gary O’Neil with a more competitive squad as they prepare for their first season back in the Premier League. Maeda’s experience, goalscoring record, and international experience with Japan were all seen as valuable assets.
The transfer is now in its final stages, with only administrative details remaining. Celtic will receive a substantial fee for a player who could have left on a free transfer at the end of his contract, while Ipswich have secured an experienced forward to bolster their attacking options. This move allows both clubs to move forward with their respective plans for the upcoming season.
