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Leeds Plot Ambitious £25m Swoop for Celtic Star Daizen Maeda Amid Premier League Return*
Fresh off securing promotion to the Premier League, Leeds United are wasting no time shaping their squad for life back in the top flight—and one of their reported targets is Celtic’s electric forward Daizen Maeda.
Following a dominant Championship campaign that included a 4-0 thrashing of Bristol City and a likely title-sealing clash against Plymouth on the horizon, the momentum at Elland Road is unmistakable. But while celebrations are in full swing, Leeds’ recruitment team is quietly working behind the scenes to bolster the squad for what promises to be a tough Premier League return.
Leeds boss Daniel Farke is believed to be keen on adding quality and depth across several areas of the pitch. Wolves’ Sam Johnstone has been touted as a potential upgrade in goal, while Max Aarons—currently on loan at Valencia from Bournemouth—remains a defensive target. Manor Solomon’s permanent arrival is also reportedly in the pipeline.
The latest name to surface is Celtic forward Daizen Maeda. According to a transfer update from Graeme Bailey via *The Boot Room*, Leeds have been monitoring the 27-year-old Japanese international, who has been described as “brilliant” and is valued at around £25 million. The Whites are not alone in their interest, however, with Premier League heavyweights including Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham, and Chelsea also reportedly watching Maeda closely, alongside Aston Villa, Fulham, West Ham, Brentford, and Crystal Palace.
Maeda’s numbers speak for themselves. In 154 appearances for Celtic, he has racked up 62 goals and 27 assists, making him a consistent attacking threat. His explosive pace, tireless work rate, and versatility in the front line have made him a key figure for both club and country. A five-time league champion—with four titles at Celtic and one from his days at Matsumoto Yamaga—Maeda brings a winning mentality that would appeal to Farke as he looks to establish Leeds in the Premier League.
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is an outspoken admirer, calling Maeda’s work ethic and consistency “amazing” and expressing his belief that the forward deserves even greater recognition. That praise has only intensified speculation that he could be prised away this summer.
While transitioning from the Scottish Premiership to England’s top division comes with inherent risks, Maeda’s international experience (23 caps and 4 goals for Japan) and proven productivity suggest he could be well-equipped to handle the leap. His familiarity with fellow Japan international Ao Tanaka—should Leeds also pursue him—could help with the adaptation process.
At 27, Maeda is entering the prime of his career, and if Leeds can beat out fierce competition for his signature, it could prove a statement signing as they look not just to survive, but thrive, back in the Premier League.
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