Daizen Maeda completes transfer from Celtic to Ipswich Town on three-year deal as Hoops rake in £10m fee
Celtic have announced the departure of the Japan international
Celtic hero Daizen Maeda has completed his move from Parkhead to Ipswich Town on a three-year deal for a fee of £8m, which rises to £10m with add-ons.
The 28-year old enjoyed a successful four-and-a-half years in Glasgow after signing from Yokohama F. Marinos, winning 10 major trophies during his tenure. Outside interest emerged towards the end of last season for Maeda after he scored nine goals in Celtic’s last seven games to help them secure the domestic double. A strong 2026 World Cup with his native Japan only heightened Tractor Boys interest.
As well as his impressive attacking output, the Japanese Duracell Bunny became a fan favourite for his unique, intense pressing ability, a skill the club now have the challenging task of replacing. Since the start of last season, the player made no secret that he had ambitions to play at a higher level but his commitment on the pitch - right up until his league-clinching goal on the final day against Hearts - remained unquestionable.
Celtic confirm Maeda exit
A Hoops statement read: “Daizen Maeda has joined English Premier League side, Ipswich Town, after four-and-a-half years at Celtic. The 28-year-old Japanese internationalist made a total of 212 appearances for the Hoops, scoring 79 goals, a tally which began with a debut goal against Hibernian back in January 2022. And over the course of his time at Celtic, he won five league titles, three Scottish Cups and two League Cups.
“The most recent of those trophies came last season when he played a key role as Martin O’Neill’s side win a league and Scottish Cup double. He scored nine goals in the last seven games of the campaign, including a spectacular overhead kick in a 3-1 derby win at Paradise and a goal on the last day of the league season against Hearts as the Hoops sealed an incredible double.
“His relentless energy and vital goals were an essential part of the team over the past four-and-a-half years, and he was a firm favourite with Celtic fans. As he heads on to pastures new at Ipswich Town, everyone at Celtic thanks Daizen for his contribution to the club over the past few years and we wish him all the best for the future.”
What has Maeda said regarding his Ipswich move?
Maeda told his new employers: “I am very proud to sign for Ipswich Town. I have always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and I am very happy I can realise that dream with this club. I have loved all of the conversations with the club and they have made me feel very welcome. My aim will always be to battle hard, score goals, and provide assists for my team – I will always run and give everything that I have. I am excited to learn more about the club and meet the supporters.”
In a statement, the Tractor Boys added: “Ipswich Town is proud to announce the signing of Japan international forward Daizen Maeda. Daizen is the first Japanese player to join the Blues and arrives from Scottish Premiership side Celtic for an undisclosed fee, penning a contract until the summer of 2029.”
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