Daizen Maeda handed perfect Premier League escape route as Celtic talks loom
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Credit: Imago
Harri Burton
Thu 11 September 2025 15:53, UK
Brendan Rodgers is unlikely to change Daizen Maeda’s mind about leaving Celtic if the club can find a suitable replacement for him.
Maeda wanted to leave Celtic Park during the summer, though he was not allowed to as the Hoops struggled to bring in reinforcements before the window slammed shut.
The 55-time Scottish Premiership winners have struggled heavily for form so far this season, being knocked out of the Champions League qualifiers, and now Rodgers must hold talks with Maeda.
The Japan international has notched just one goal and two assists in that time, and after scoring a total of 33 goals in 2024-25, there is clearly something wrong behind the scenes in Scotland.
Credit: Imago
Football Insider understands that Celtic are adamant about Maeda leaving in January.
However, if the 27-year-old submits a transfer request once the new window opens, the club would have to consider doing a deal.
Speaking in a recent interview, the forward admitted to wanting to take the “next step” in his career, which could suggest a move to the Premier League after receiving an offer from an unnamed club.
He has only played for the Hoops since his move from Yokohama F.Marinos in 2022, but with a decent international career as well, clubs would likely line up for his signature.
Ange Postecoglou is the new Nottingham Forest manager.
(Credit Imago)
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Now, with Ange Postecoglou back in management at Nottingham Forest, a move to the City Ground could be the perfect opportunity to make his dream happen, either in January or next summer.
This summer, Postecoglou attempted to sign Maeda before he was surprisingly sacked by Daniel Levy, and after that, links to North London ran cold, so it was clearly the former Celtic boss’ interest.
His admiration for the player is no secret.
After a goal off the bench against Motherwell in 2022, the Australian described the forward as “immense” [Daily Record], becoming a vital player for him.
Things could fall into place for the Japan international to secure his move to the Premier League, linking up with Postecoglou once again, having struggled to transition to Rodgers’ style of football following the former manager’s exit in 2023.