Daizen Maeda Transfer Talk Intensifies as Celtic Set Firm Valuation

As the January transfer window approaches, Celtic’s attention is firmly fixed on strengthening the squad, but history shows that transfer periods are rarely just about who comes in. Supporters are also aware that exits can happen quickly, sometimes unexpectedly, and that means keeping an eye on developments at both ends of the market. One player who could yet become a talking point is Daizen Maeda, whose future has again been linked with a move away from Parkhead.

Wilfried Nancy has made no secret of the fact that his squad needs reinforcement in several areas. Wing-back and centre forward are among the most pressing concerns, with depth and quality both in short supply. Ironically, one of the players who can operate through the middle is Maeda himself, a forward who was close to leaving Celtic during the summer transfer window. That proposed move, believed to involve Wolfsburg, ultimately collapsed, but Maeda later caused a stir by suggesting he felt unable to leave the club despite his desire to explore a new challenge.

Since then, Nancy has publicly stated that Maeda is content at Celtic and fully committed to the team’s objectives. However, reports emerging from abroad suggest that interest in the Japan international has not gone away. Even with Celtic prioritising incoming deals, outside attention could yet complicate their plans.

According to reports from Turkey, Trabzonspor have made an enquiry about Maeda and asked for information on the terms of a possible transfer. The same reports suggest that the 28-year-old has been given a valuation of around €14 million and could be available if the financial package meets Celtic’s expectations. While this does not mean a deal is imminent, it does indicate that Maeda is being closely monitored and that Celtic may be forced to consider their position should a formal bid arrive.

On paper, a fee in that region would represent strong business. Celtic have a well-established model of developing players and selling them on at a profit, reinvesting the proceeds back into the squad. However, the real question is whether cashing in on Maeda at this point would actually benefit the team on the pitch.

The comparison with Kyogo Furuhashi is an obvious one. Just a year ago, Celtic accepted an offer in the region of £10 million for Kyogo, a move that many described as sensible from a financial perspective. Yet the reality has been more complicated. Celtic have struggled to replace his goal output and overall influence, and the team has arguably not been the same since his departure. That experience has left supporters wary of losing another key attacking player, especially one who brings a very different but equally valuable skill set.

Maeda’s importance is not defined solely by goals. His relentless energy, pressing, and willingness to do the hard work off the ball make him a crucial component of Celtic’s system, particularly in European competition. Against stronger opponents, his ability to harass defenders, close down space, and stretch defences with his pace often proves invaluable. In many respects, his contribution without the ball is just as significant as what he produces with it.

For Nancy, the potential loss of Maeda would be especially problematic. The manager is still settling into the role and shaping the squad in his image. He has already identified the need for reinforcements, and losing one of his most reliable and versatile players during his first transfer window would be a significant setback. With limited attacking depth already, selling Maeda could leave Celtic dangerously short of options at a crucial stage of the season.

That concern is amplified by the demands of Nancy’s tactical approach. His system relies heavily on movement, intensity, and players who can adapt to different roles within a game. Maeda fits that profile perfectly, which explains why he has featured in every match since Nancy took charge. His fitness levels are rarely in question, and his willingness to follow tactical instructions has made him a cornerstone of the current setup.

Nancy recently expanded on his view of Maeda’s role when asked about the player’s best position. Rather than offering a straightforward answer, the Celtic boss highlighted Maeda’s flexibility and intelligence. In Nancy’s eyes, Maeda is equally effective starting out wide or through the middle, largely because of how he interprets space and times his runs.

Nancy explained that Maeda does not fit the traditional mould of a winger, as he constantly looks to attack space rather than hugging the touchline. When deployed centrally, he often drifts wide to exploit gaps, while starting on the flank allows him to make diagonal runs into goal-scoring areas. This fluidity gives Celtic a tactical edge and makes Maeda difficult for defenders to track.

The manager also noted that while Maeda can play as a number nine, his effectiveness in that role depends on the players around him. He is comfortable linking play and holding the ball when required, but his greatest strength lies in his movement and combination play. Having the right support cast allows him to maximise those qualities and cause problems for opposition defences.

From a tactical perspective, Nancy emphasised how Maeda’s presence on the wing can open up central areas for others. Simply having him in wide positions forces defenders to make decisions, creating space either behind the back line or through the middle. For a coach focused on manipulating space and movement, that versatility is hugely valuable.

All of this underlines why the reported €14 million valuation, while tempting, comes with significant risk. Replacing Maeda would not be straightforward, particularly in January when quality options are scarce and prices are often inflated. Even if Celtic were to reinvest the money, finding a player capable of replicating Maeda’s unique blend of pace, work rate, and tactical discipline would be a challenge.

For now, Celtic appear focused on strengthening rather than selling. However, with Trabzonspor reportedly asking for terms, the situation is one to watch closely. Transfer windows have a habit of shifting quickly, and Celtic’s resolve could be tested if interest turns into a concrete offer.

Ultimately, the decision will come down to balancing financial logic with footballing reality. Maeda may carry a substantial price tag, but his value to Celtic’s ambitions, both domestically and in Europe, arguably goes far beyond any transfer fee. Whether the club can afford to let him go, especially at such a pivotal moment, remains a question that could define their January window.