DAIZEN MAEDA will be in the Celtic attack when the champions kick off their bid for their fourteenth title in 15 years against St Mirren on Flag Day at Parkhead a fortnight today.
However, there are still doubts if the Japanese flyer will still be in place at the end of the month.
Maeda still has two years to run on his current contract, but last season’s exploits when he scored 33 goals and picked up multiple Player of the Year awards have alerted clubs to his qualities.
Brentford, who are in line for a £71million windfall when forward Bryan Mbeumo finalises his move to Manchester United, have already been linked with the 27-year-old speedster who has been capped 23 times by his country.
PARADISE…Daizen Maeda celebrates one of his 33 Celtic goals last season.
The Hoops are eager for the player to extend his deal, but so far there has been no movement.
After watching Maeda’s involvement in the first and third goals in the 4-0 win over Newcastle United at Parkhead yesterday, Brendan Rodgers admitted: “I don’t think there have been any developments on that, but he’s a professional and his focus is very much on here.”
Every effort will be made to stave off interest elsewhere for the attacker who has become pivotal to the team’s structure.
While Maeda ponders his future, his fellow-countryman Shin Yamada sealed a four-year deal following his £1.3million switch from Kawasaki Frontale, as CQN reported.
The new Bhoy was paraded before the kick-off against Eddie Howe’s side and Rodgers, speaking to the Daily Record, continued: “His profile suits how he plays.
SIGNED, SEALED AND DELIVERED…Celtic new Bhoy Shin Yamada.
“He’s one of the quickest players from the Japanese league – he’s even quicker than Daizen and Kyogo in terms of statistics, and that’s how we play, that speed in the top line.
“He gives that depth as well, so I’m really looking forward to seeing him come in and seeing what he can bring.”
The Hoops gaffer added: “All the Japanese players we work with, they have intensity, they have fitness, and they have this momentum, this mentality to keep going.
“So, we think he’ll bring that and, hopefully, we can develop him like we have the other players.”
BRENDAN BEAMS WITH HOOPS TO THE FOUR
