Exclusive: Celtic make Daizen Maeda January transfer decision
Celtic will not allow Daizen Maeda to leave in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
Maeda has admitted that he wanted a move away from Celtic in the summer, but the club blocked his potential transfer.
Following the revelation, there has been concern within the Hoops fanbase that the 27-year-old could try and force an exit when the window reopens.
However, sources say that the Japanese international is likely to be leading the line for Brendan Rodgers‘ side due to their lack of depth in forward areas, meaning they cannot afford to let him go mid-season.
Celtic could revisit Daizen Maeda exit in the summer
Last week, Celtic signed free agent Kelechi Iheanacho, who was far from the club’s first choice option.
Rodgers’ side missed out on bringing in Kasper Dolberg, who instead joined Ajax, meaning they were forced to utilise the free transfer market to bolster their ranks.
It is clear that Celtic will not let Maeda depart without bringing in a suitable replacement, in order to ensure they have sufficient attacking options.
However, the January window is notoriously difficult in terms of adding quality players, and therefore the versatile forward will once again be forced to stay in Glasgow.
Depending on the situation at the end of the season, the Hoops may allow Maeda to move on, as they would then have more time to sign an alternative.
Premier League side line up Brendan Rodgers
Meanwhile, Rodgers is being lined up for a potential return to the Premier League amid growing tensions behind the scenes at Celtic, sources have told Football Insider.
The board’s apparent lack of ambition has raised questions among supporters and club legends, with many speaking out to express their concerns.
Football Insider revealed on 5 September that Rodgers could quit Celtic as the growing unrest around the club could have a direct impact on his future.
Rodgers is high on Nottingham Forest’s shortlist amid fears that Nuno Espirito Santo could soon be dismissed, and would not wait around in Glasgow if an opportunity in the Premier League arose.
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