Maeda Madness: Fenerbahce & Leeds in Tug-of-War for Celtic's Star Man

2025-05-30 Han, June

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - MARCH 29: Daizen Maeda of Celtic reacts after scoring his team's first goal during the William Hill Premiership match between Celtic FC and Heart of Midlothian FC at Celtic Park on March 29, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Daizen Maeda's electrifying rise at Celtic has caught the eyes of clubs across Europe — and now two suitors are circling with serious intent: newly-promoted Leeds United and Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

According to reports from Turkey’s Takvim and Scottish sources, both clubs are pushing hard to land the Japanese forward, who has just been crowned Scotland’s PFA Player of the Year.

CELTIC's New Japanese Goal Machine

Initially brought in under Ange Postecoglou in 2022, Maeda was admired for his relentless energy and pressing ability. But in 2025, he’s gone from workhorse to match-winner.

With Kyogo Furuhashi’s departure in January and no direct replacement brought in, Brendan Rodgers turned to Maeda to lead the line. The result? A flurry of goals — including four in the Champions League — and performances that lit up Celtic Park and beyond.

His standout display against Bayern Munich in the knockout stages proved he could deliver on Europe’s grandest stage. That was the moment Maeda went from valuable squad player to Celtic's crown jewel.

Why Mourinho Wants Him

Now, José Mourinho — freshly installed at Fenerbahce — wants Maeda to be part of his revolution in Istanbul. The club narrowly missed out on the Süper Lig title and is seeking dynamic reinforcements ahead of a fresh title charge.

Takvim reports that Fenerbahce’s sporting director Mario Branco has prioritised signing a "highly athletic" forward — and Maeda ticks every box. His explosive pace, tireless running, and improved finishing have made him a prime target.

Mourinho is said to be personally keen on the Japanese international, seeing him as a player who could thrive in both domestic and European competition.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - JANUARY 05: Daizen Maeda of Celtic arrives prior to the William Hill Premiership match between Celtic FC and St. Mirren FC at Celtic Park on January 05, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Celtic’s Valuation and the Transfer Dilemma

Despite interest, Fenerbahce reportedly believe Maeda could be prised away for €11 million — just over £9 million. However, such a figure is likely to be laughed off in Glasgow.

Celtic view Maeda as one of their most beloved and influential players, both on and off the pitch. Fresh off a season that saw him win individual honours and carry the team in crucial moments, there’s little appetite at Parkhead to let him go on the cheap.

And with newly-promoted Leeds also sniffing around, it’s unlikely a bidding war will stay at single-digit millions for long.

What’s Next?

For now, Maeda remains focused on his role at Celtic, but the summer window promises to test the Scottish champions’ resolve. With Fenerbahce and Leeds both watching closely, it’s not a question of if offers come in — but how big they’ll need to be to tempt Celtic into talks.

One thing’s for sure — Daizen Maeda has arrived. And Europe has noticed.