As the summer transfer window looms, Arsenal have set their sights on a bold move that could reshape their attacking line-up. The Gunners, under the stewardship of manager Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta, are reportedly preparing a £25m bid to prise Celtic’s dynamic forward Daizen Maeda from the Scottish Premiership. The 28-year-old Japanese international, dubbed a “machine” by Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers for his relentless work rate and clinical finishing, has emerged as a surprise target for the North London club, sparking excitement among fans eager for a fresh spark in their Premier League campaign.
Maeda’s rise to prominence at Celtic has been nothing short of remarkable. Since joining the Hoops in 2022, he has notched an impressive 62 goals and 27 assists in 154 appearances, showcasing a lethal combination of pace, tenacity, and goal-scoring instinct. His versatility to operate as a central striker or wide forward makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s fluid tactical system, which demands high energy and adaptability from its attackers. With Arsenal prioritizing a new striker and wide forward following season-ending injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, Maeda’s proven track record and relatively modest £25m price tag have positioned him as a shrewd target.
The interest in Maeda is not exclusive to Arsenal. A host of Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Brentford, Fulham, Crystal Palace, West Ham United, and Leeds United, have scouted the forward this season. Clubs in Germany and Italy have also expressed admiration, drawn by his consistent performances and ability to thrive under pressure. Despite this widespread attention, Arsenal’s pursuit is gaining traction, with sources indicating that the Gunners view Maeda as a realistic and impactful addition to their squad. “He’s a machine, honestly,” Rodgers once said of Maeda, praising his tireless work ethic and ability to “press defenders into mistakes” while delivering crucial goals.
Maeda’s journey to this point has been one of grit and determination. Born in Osaka, he honed his craft in Japan’s J1 League before making the leap to European football. His time at Celtic has seen him flourish under Rodgers’ guidance, becoming a fan favourite at Parkhead for his all-action style and knack for decisive contributions. Yet, the lure of the Premier League, with its global stage and competitive intensity, could prove tempting. While Maeda is said to be content at Celtic and reluctant to force a move, insiders suggest he is open to a transfer if it offers a significant step up in his career. “I’m happy here, but every player wants to test themselves at the highest level,” Maeda reportedly told those close to him, hinting at his ambition.
For Arsenal, the potential signing aligns with their broader transfer strategy. Arteta has long coveted a marquee striker, with Newcastle’s Alexander Isak previously topping his wishlist. However, Newcastle’s reluctance to sell and Isak’s £150m valuation have forced the Gunners to explore more attainable options. Maeda, alongside Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, is among the names under consideration as Arsenal aim to bolster their attack without breaking the bank. The club’s healthy financial position, bolstered by recent Champions League qualification and prudent spending, provides the flexibility to pursue multiple targets, but Maeda’s affordability and Premier League-ready attributes make him a standout candidate.
Celtic, meanwhile, are bracing for a potential exodus. The club’s model of selling players at peak value has served them well, and Maeda’s departure could fund further investment in young talent. Rodgers has already identified potential replacements, with the Hoops reportedly eyeing Royal Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha as a cut-price option. However, losing a player of Maeda’s calibre would be a blow, especially as Celtic aim to maintain their dominance in Scotland and compete in Europe.
The transfer saga is set to intensify as the summer window approaches. Arsenal’s interest in Maeda reflects their ambition to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League title and making waves in the Champions League. For Maeda, the opportunity to join a club of Arsenal’s stature could mark the next chapter in his remarkable career. As fans await further developments, one thing is clear: the Gunners’ £25m raid for Celtic’s “machine” has ignited a transfer story that promises drama, ambition, and the prospect of a new star lighting up the Emirates.
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