Daizen Maeda is Celtic’s indispensable star.
The Japanese winger netted an impressive 31 goals last season in all competitions, playing a pivotal role in Celtic’s domestic Double triumph.
Maeda swept up every Player of the Year award he was eligible for, leaving supporters eager to see him maintain that exceptional form this season.
Despite earlier links to Brentford and reported interest from Fenerbahçe in June, transfer rumors have since quieted down.
Sutton insists Celtic must not sell Maeda at any cost
However, speculation persists that Maeda could still be sold if a massive bid arrives before the transfer window closes.
But Chris Sutton has urged Celtic to reject any offer for the 27-year-old—even an astronomical £75 million bid.
In his Daily Record column, Sutton wrote: *”The transfer window is often called the ‘silly season’ due to all the rumors, but the idea of Celtic selling Maeda might be the silliest of all. Letting him go now would be unthinkable—regardless of the fee.
I don’t care about the ‘Celtic model’ or a potential big-money offer. Maeda cannot be sold. Not for any price. Even £75 million wouldn’t be enough—and I’m being completely serious.
Losing Maeda wouldn’t just mean losing one player; his versatility makes him worth at least two. And with Celtic already thin in attack, his departure would be disastrous.
Some argue that at 27, with two years left on his deal, now is the time to cash in. But that only makes sense if two ready-made replacements are waiting—and they aren’t.”*
Selling Maeda would hand Rangers a major advantage
Celtic are already in need of attacking reinforcements, with at least two wingers and possibly another striker required.
Losing Maeda would be a devastating blow—even if replacements arrive before the deadline.
He is a cornerstone of this Celtic side, and his exit would significantly boost Rangers’ chances in the Scottish Premiership title race.
