Fenerbahce Keen on Daizen Maeda but Celtic Stand Firm on £21m Valuation

Turkish giants Fenerbahce have launched a bid to sign Celtic’s prolific Japanese forward Daizen Maeda, according to reports from Scotland. However, Celtic have rejected the initial approach and are demanding a significantly higher fee for the striker, who scored a remarkable 33 goals across all competitions last season.

The Daily Record reports that Fenerbahce tabled an opening offer of €10 million (around £8.4 million), but that proposal was swiftly dismissed by Celtic, who value Maeda at €25 million (£21 million). The Japanese international, 27, has become a key figure at Celtic Park since his arrival from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2022.

Maeda’s stock has risen even further this season as he stepped into the central striker role vacated by Kyogo Furuhashi at times, maintaining his impressive scoring rate. His high work rate and versatility have made him a fan favourite and a crucial part of Brendan Rodgers’ plans.

While Fenerbahce’s interest appears genuine, their opening offer has been labelled “laughable” by some sources close to the Scottish club, who are adamant they will not part with Maeda on the cheap. Turkish outlet Sozcu claims that Fenerbahce see Maeda as an ideal replacement for Allan Saint-Maximin, with manager Jose Mourinho reportedly determined to make the transfer happen.

Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with a move for Maeda, largely due to his strong relationship with former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou. However, Postecoglou’s recent dismissal has cast doubt on Spurs’ plans, and any pursuit of Maeda by the north London club now appears uncertain.

Football-Asian understands that Leeds United have also shown an interest in Maeda but have not made any formal move as yet. While the Yorkshire club has been linked to Maeda’s name, no bid has been submitted, and they are yet to show serious intent to rival Fenerbahce’s efforts.

Maeda himself has expressed a desire to continue his fine form at Celtic next season, recently stating, “I am who I am because of my team, Celtic. I’d like to thank my teammates and, above all, my family for supporting me so far. I’d be happy if I could score more goals next season.”

With Maeda now excused from international duty to spend time with his young family in Japan, speculation about his future is expected to intensify in the coming weeks. Whether Fenerbahce or any other suitor will meet Celtic’s valuation remains to be seen.