Leeds on Red Alert as Maeda Eyes Celtic Exit — January Scrap Incoming

Daizen Maeda has, by all accounts, told Celtic he’s ready for a January move — and that has put Leeds United and half the Premier League on high alert. If the Hoops truly are prepared to talk at the right number, expect a flurry the moment the window creaks open.

Leeds lead a crowded queue

Reports suggest Leeds have joined Brentford, Everton, Wolves and West Ham in tracking the Japan international. Celtic are understood to be valuing Maeda at around £15m, and with his deal running to June 2027, they’re in a strong negotiating position — but not immovable if someone pays up.

What Maeda brings

He’s a relentless presser with blistering pace, a forward who harries defenders into mistakes and stretches the pitch. The end product has been up and down this term — four goals in 17 outings across competitions — yet the wider body of work is hard to ignore: 66 goals and 30 assists in 175 Celtic appearances, plus eight major trophies, including four league titles. Some in the rumour mill have even dubbed him “world‑class,” and he reportedly notched his first goal under interim boss Martin O’Neil last week in a 4-0 dismantling of Kilmarnock.

Celtic’s calculation

Even with another title in their sights, Celtic haven’t fully hit stride — seven wins from 11 and trailing Hearts by seven points, as it stands. The word is they’re already lining up potential replacements should a suitable bid land. If a bidding war kicks off, the Glasgow club will fancy getting their number.

Leeds’ need for thrust up top

Leeds have looked blunt in the final third far too often this season, with just 10 league goals to show for their endeavour and the leading striking options combining for only three in the top flight, per the report. Whether it’s starting wide left or buzzing off the shoulder through the middle, Maeda would add legs, pressing intensity and a direct threat that defenders hate. He’s not the most clinical finisher, but he creates chaos — and chaos wins you points in tight matches.

Who else fits and why

Brentford’s data-friendly approach will have noticed Maeda’s off-ball work and repeat sprints. Everton could do with his industry to set a pressing trigger from the front. Wolves and West Ham both love a transition and would appreciate his ability to carry teams up the pitch in seconds. The stylistic fit is there for several managers — which is why this could get lively.

For those eyeing the market angles as the window nears, keep tabs on prices across the best betting sites — a transfer like this can swing odds on relegation scraps and top-half finishes alike.

The January playbook

Expect an early probe around the £15m mark, Celtic to hold firm until the structure hits their sweet spot, and at least one rival to test Leeds’ resolve with a late bid. If Maeda’s camp pushes for a fresh challenge, the pieces could fall quickly. If not, he remains a high-impact option for Celtic’s title chase.

Bottom line: if Leeds want pace, pressing and a ready-made Premier League nuisance, Maeda ticks those boxes. Now it’s a case of who steps up first — and who blinks last.