Celtic Hero Daizen Maeda Joins Ipswich in £10m Deal
The Japan international leaves Scotland with five league titles, three Scottish Cups and two League Cups after a hugely successful spell.
Ipswich Town have announced the signing of Celtic forward Daizen Maeda on a three year contract, in a deal worth around £10 million.
The 28-year-old Japanese international joins the newly promoted Premier League side, after four and a half years at Celtic Park where he won five league titles, three Scottish Cups, and two League Cups.
Maeda had been close to signing for German outfit Wolfsburg last summer, but the transfer fell through and will now fulfill his dream of playing in the English Premier League.
During his time at Celtic, Maeda scored 79 goals in 212 games for the Scottish champions and this summer helped Japan reach the last 32 of the World Cup before being knocked out by Brazil.
Speaking to the official Ipswich website, Maeda said: “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.”
Ipswich manager Gary O’Neil, who replaced Kieran McKenna following his shock departure at the end of last season, added: “He works extremely hard and has impressive physical attributes, while also proving over a number of years playing in Scotland that he has the ability to score goals and create for his team.
Following the announcement of his move, Maeda took to social media to thank Celtic and the fans for the support during his years in Glasgow:
