Southampton has been a popular destination as a route into the Premier League for Celtic stars over the years. Virgil van Dijk, Victor Wanyama, Fraser Forster and Stuart Armstrong are some of the names that come to mind immediately. And it looks like the Saints have their eyes on Parkhead once again.
Celtic have a very talented squad at this point, that has been assembled mostly under the reign of Ange Postecoglou as the manager of the club over the past 18 months.
The likes of Jota, Kyogo, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Josip Juranovic, Matt O’Riley, Reo Hatate and others have managed to become household names since arriving in Glasgow. One player who has flown a bit under the radar though is Daizen Maeda.
Maeda has found some impressive form in recent times though and now, it looks like he is drawing the interest of clubs down south, similar to a number of his teammates. As reported by GIVEMESPORT, journalist Ryan Taylor said:
"“Southampton are also looking at Maeda.“He’s another player that would probably come under interest if they can’t get a deal across the line for Moffi.”"
Southampton linked with move for in-form Celtic star
Maeda had already been loosely linked with Southampton as a potential target for their scouts a week or two ago, and now there seems to be some more information on the matter. It appears that the Japanese forward is an alternative target for the Saints in case they are unable to sign Terem Moffi from Lorient.
Maeda did not start the season in good form but he has certainly improved drastically as the campaign has progressed, and is one of Celtic’s most consistent players right now.
On the other hand, the fact that he was superb for the Japanese national team at the World Cup, as they made the last 16, will have helped enhance his reputation across Europe as well.
With the likes of Giorgos Giakoumakis and Josip Juranovic already expected to depart Parkhead this month, it would be a surprise if Celtic entertain any offers for Maeda.