Celtic find themselves in a difficult situation right now when it comes to outgoings. The likes of Giorgos Giakoumakis and Josip Juranovic have been linked with moves away from Parkhead for quite some time now. On the other hand, there are several others who seem to be drawing interest from abroad as well.
Now, it remains to be seen how things unfold over the next couple of weeks that the January transfer window is open. While Giakoumakis and Juranovic remain the most likely players to leave, could there be a surprise exit in store?
Another player who is rumoured to be catching the eye of clubs with his recent performances is Daizen Maeda. After a slow start to the campaign, the Japanese star has turned things around impressively and established himself as one of the most important players in the team. That has come with links to Southampton as well.
Southampton are no strangers to signing players from Celtic. And as reported by Football Insider, Frank McAvennie said about the situation:
"“He is missing some chances but you can’t argue with his talent. You can’t argue with his enthusiasm or his movement and work rate for the team. That all blends well for the Premier League because that is what they do.“He works his socks off but he misses too many chances and then he scores absolute blinders. Southampton like players like that.“I would not be surprised and there is no way Ange will stand in his way if it is the Premier League.“I do not think there will be a problem but I do not think Ange will want to sell anyone but if the price is right then he is away.”"
Celtic star tipped to leave for Southampton for the right transfer fee
It will be very interesting to see how things turn out for Maeda but it is safe to say that Celtic should not even consider letting him leave in the middle of the campaign, especially if Giakoumakis is away this month as well, as he is expected to.
Maeda has been one of the most reliable sources of goals and assists for the club in recent times and nobody has ever really questioned his work rate which is incredible to say the least.
Also with his versatility, Maeda leaving would leave Celtic short of options up top. And one has to also consider the fact that Southampton are bottom of the Premier League table and there is a good chance that they could go down this season.