Celtic fans will be hoping that Daizen Maeda remains at the club beyond this season amid rumours constantly linking him with a move away from Parkhead as a number of Premier League clubs are believed to be interested. Considering how often we have seen key players depart, it would not come as any surprise though if the name of the Japanese forward was added to that never-ending list soon.
Maeda has enjoyed his best season by far. Always celebrated for his nonstop pressing ability, the Celtic forward has now added consistent goals to his game. Maeda has been helped by the fact that he has gotten more chances to play centrally following the departure of Kyogo Furuhashi in the winter.
In the past, Maeda was often criticised for his inconsistent finishing in front of the goal. But this season, he has scored 33 times and also provided 12 assists along the way, showing significant improvement and winning the PFA Scotland Player of the Year as a result.
Naturally, teams around Europa have taken notice, mostly from the Premier League. Clubs are even rumoured to be readying offers to sign him. So, who are the favourites in this transfer race?
Favourites to sign Daizen Maeda from Celtic named
Well, oddsmakers have Liverpool as the favourites to sign Maeda from Celtic. Arsenal are close behind in second and Totteham Hotspur third.
Of course, this is not how it always plays out. There is a very good chance that Maeda ends up staying at Celtic, with suggestions that the club are ready to hand him an improved contract.
Even if he were to leave, perhaps joining a mid-table Premier League club would be better for him, with the World Cup coming up. Maeda could end up getting lost in the shuffle at a club like Liverpool or Arsenal. His chances of success would be much higher if he ended up at a team like Crystal Palace or West Ham United.