Daizen Maeda speaks out as Leeds line up transfer approach amid £25m+ news
Leeds are searching for a new striker this summer as they prepare for their upcoming Premier League campaign.
More firepower is needed at Elland Road if the Peacocks are to become the first promoted team in three years to survive the drop.
Daniel Farke has recognised this, and is on the hunt for new attackers.
Everton’s Beto has been linked with Leeds after a solid Premier League campaign.
On top of this, Celtic’s Daizen Maeda is a potential option after he helped guide the Glaswegian club to another Scottish Premiership title.
Maede in no rush to leave Celtic amid Leeds rumours
Leeds were linked to Maeda back in May as Celtic’s campaign came to a close.
The Japanese international netted 16 times and picked up 10 assists in the Scottish Premiership this season as he missed out on the golden boot by two goals.
Celtic will demand at least £25 million for the 27-year-old this summer.
It is believed that the striker has plenty of admirers with Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce also interested.
| Daizen Maeda’s Celtic career so far | |
| Appearances | 158 |
| Goals | 62 |
| Assists | 28 |
| Honours | Scottish Premiership x4, Scottish Cup x2, Scottish League Cup x2 |
However, it appears that Maeda is in no rush to leave Glasgow despite these rumours.
Speaking to media in Japan via the Daily Record (4 June), he said: “I was in great form both personally and with the team. I’d like to keep it up next season.
“I’m who I am because of my team. I’d like to thank my teammates, and above all, my family for supporting me so far.
“My career really took off here in Mito. When I first came to Mito, I thought, ‘No one can run at all!
“My forte is sprinting multiple times during a match and running for 90 minutes straight. I came to Mito and learned about not wanting to lose games.”
Leeds need to target more experienced strikers
While Maeda may be a top striker for Celtic, there are doubts that he could make the step up to the Premier League.
Multiple attackers have moved from the Scottish top-flight and flopped in England in recent years.
For £25 million, Leeds simply cannot take that risk and must target more experienced attackers.
This transfer window is arguably the most important in the Peacocks’ history, and they must ensure that every signing they make will dramatically improve the starting XI.
If not, relegation is almost a certainty for Farke’s side next year.