Ipswich Town have completed the signing of Japan international forward Daizen Maeda from Celtic on a three-year contract, the Premier League club announced on Saturday. The 28-year-old becomes the first Japanese player to represent Ipswich Town. British media reports indicate the transfer fee is approximately £10 million.
Maeda was part of the Japan squad at the recent World Cup, featuring in their 1-1 draw against Sweden during the group stage. He expressed his delight at joining Ipswich, stating in a club release that he has always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and felt very welcomed during discussions with the club. Maeda pledged to work tirelessly, score goals, and provide assists for his new team, promising relentless effort on the pitch.
During his time with Celtic, Maeda established himself as a prolific goalscorer, netting 79 goals in 212 appearances. He played a significant role in Celtic’s domestic success, contributing to five Scottish Premiership titles and five Scottish Cup victories. His departure leaves a void in the Celtic attack, though the Scottish champions have been active in the transfer market themselves this summer.
Ipswich manager Gary O’Neil will be hoping Maeda’s goalscoring form translates to the Premier League as he looks to establish Ipswich as a competitive force following their promotion. Maeda is the fifth addition to O’Neil’s squad during the current transfer window as Ipswich prepares for their opening match of the season against Sunderland on August 22nd. The signing demonstrates Ipswich’s ambition to strengthen their attacking options ahead of a challenging Premier League campaign.
