Celtic face a pivotal decision this summer as star forward Daizen Maeda edges closer to an exit from Glasgow. The 28-year-old Japanese international openly expressed his desire for a move last year, and fresh reports indicate Premier League scouts are now circling ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that multiple English top-flight clubs are closely monitoring the situation. Brown highlighted Maeda's consistent excellence at Celtic over recent years, pointing to standout performances like his recent Old Firm heroics. However, he also cautioned about the widening quality gap in Scottish football, which makes assessing players for a step up more challenging.
"Scouts are constantly tracking top talent north of the border," Brown explained. "Maeda is drawing plenty of interest, but clubs have to weigh the risks since he hasn't truly been tested at a higher level." With Celtic preparing for a busy transfer window under new management, the funds from a potential sale could provide significant resources to strengthen the squad across multiple positions.
This season, Maeda delivered 12 league goals and six assists in 34 appearances, while also contributing solid shifts in cup competitions and European fixtures. His blistering pace and relentless work rate make him a constant defensive headache, though his finishing can occasionally falter against elite-level defenders—a factor Premier League clubs will undoubtedly scrutinize.
"Premier League clubs are well aware of Maeda," Brown added. "They all have scouts stationed in Scotland watching top performers, and he's been one of Celtic's standouts for years. If he's going to be available, several clubs will be on alert—not just because of his recent Old Firm display, but for his body of work before that too."
The former scout also offered a word of caution: "I think clubs have to be on their guard with signings from Scotland right now. The level has dropped. It used to be you could get top players from there, but recently, I'm not convinced—and I expect Premier League sides feel the same. Has Maeda shown enough this season and during his time at Celtic to suggest he can make a difference in the Premier League? That's the big question."