Celtic are in serious danger of falling behind Rangers and Hearts this summer if they fail to act in the transfer market. Martin O’Neill‘s side are yet to welcome a single reinforcement and are facing some major sales.
The headlines have centred around Daizen Maeda in the last week, following Japan’s World Cup exit and his own admission about his club future.
Now, reports have added to Celtic’s problems and added to concerns that an exit could be on the cards of the talented forward this summer.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Maeda made it clear after Japan’s World Cup exit that he needs to step up to a new level and that’s bad news for Celtic, who are reportedly facing an “inevitable” exit. |
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Finances |
Celtic will want to cash in if they are to sell the forward, but they may not get it all their own way. Maeda currently has just one year left on his current deal. |
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Insight |
The Japanese star proved to be the man for the big occasion last season, scoring a late winner against Hearts to seal the title and it’s worth noting that he scored 33 goals in the season prior. |
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Impact |
His exit would leave a gaping hole for Celtic to fill at a time when they’re already struggling to find goals. As far as they are concerned, it is a nightmare scenario. |
Celtic must do everything to keep Maeda and, failing that, simply have to get their own business underway as soon as possible.
Celtic facing “inevitable” Maeda sale
A downhearted Maeda faced the press following Japan’s narrow exit at the hands of Brazil at the World Cup and had his own say on the future.
The bad news for the Bhoy is that he couldn’t help but admit that he needs to be playing at a higher level, telling reporters: “It made me realise that I can’t stay at my current level and that I need to become a better player.”
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke has since had his say on the matter, revealing that Maeda’s exit is now “inevitable” at Celtic this summer.
“Yeah, you would probably say it is inevitable that Daizen Maeda will leave Celtic this summer.” – O’Rourke
The big question is now centred around the forward’s price-tag and just who could swoop in to land his signature in the coming months.
How Celtic could replace Maeda this summer
At his best, Celtic could be forced to replace a 33-goal forward this summer and whilst that may sound like an impossible task, they’ve already got some targets in mind.
Motherwell’s Tawanda Maswanhise is one to watch after scoring 17 goals last season, as is recent target Camilo Duran. The Bhoys are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign the Qarabag forward.
The forward scored five goals in 10 Champions League games last season and undoubtedly has the quality to replace Maeda on the biggest stage this summer.
