Celtic must make Daizen Maeda contract priority after Old Firm derby brace
Celtic could win a domestic double this season, and much of this is down to Daizen Maeda returning to form.
The attacker had been awful for the Hoops for some time, but has now finally started to find the net once more.
Going into the Old Firm derby, the Japan international had netted four times and picked up two assists in three games.
However, he saved his best performance for Rangers as he netted a fantastic brace to pick up a priceless victory.
Now, Celtic have to renew Maeda’s contract as it is clear that he needs to be at the club next season.
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VISIT THE CELTIC TRANSFER HUBCeltic must renew Daizen Maeda’s contract
As it stands, Maeda’s contract is set to expire in 2027, with Celtic star now having just over a year left on his current deal.
The attacker’s deal has been a big talking point at the club for almost a season, with Martin O’Neill admitting last month that no fresh talks had happened yet.
| Daizen Maeda’s stats vs Rangers | |
| Minutes | 90 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Shots | 4 |
| xG | 0.52 |
| Passsing accuracy | 69% |
| Chances created | 1 |
| Dribbles completed | 2 |
| Touches in opposition box | 7 |
| Tackles | 3 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Recoveries | 3 |
However, with Maeda now showcasing his class and defining matches, a new deal has to be Celtic’s priority.
A rebuild is expected in the summer, but the club has to keep hold of players such as Maeda to show the incoming signings what is expected.
With Rangers also likely to spend big, keeping hold of the attacker could be the difference-maker in another potential title battle next season.
Hopefully, talks will soon get underway as the end of the season quickly approaches.
Could Maeda be sold in the summer?
Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Celtic have been preparing to cash in on Maeda.
The Hoops believed back in March that there was no chance that he would sign a new deal and were looking to get in a fee while they still could.
Maeda is after a new challenge, and this is something that Celtic are happy to facilitate.
However, it remains to be seen if either party have since changed their mind, especially given his form and the recent qualification for the Champions League.
Keeping Maeda would be a massive boost for Celtic this summer, and the news would be as arguably good as a new signing.
Target: Elijah Just (Motherwell)
Long-term: Carter-Vickers out
League Pos: 2nd (61 pts)
Status: Summer Talks Underway
Revenue: £143.6m (2025)