Japan forward Daizen Maeda has officially signed for Premier League side Ipswich Town from Celtic on a three-year contract, according to an announcement from the club. The 28-year-old attacker joins the Tractor Boys in a reported £10m deal following a standout career in Scottish football.
Transfer Details and Career Background at Celtic
Maeda arrives at Portman Road after scoring 79 goals in 212 appearances for Celtic. During his tenure in Glasgow, he secured five league titles, three Scottish Cups, and two League Cups. According to Ipswich Town’s official website, the forward expressed his excitement about moving to England. “I have always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and I am very happy I can realise that dream with this club,” Maeda stated. He added that his focus will be on battling hard, scoring goals, and providing assists.
Reflecting on his departure in a social media message to the Celtic supporters, Maeda described his four-and-a-half-year spell in Scotland as the most special chapter of his career and life, thanking the fans, teammates, and staff.
Squad Integration and Managerial Perspective
Ipswich manager Gary O’Neil, who took charge at Portman Road in the summer following Kieran McKenna’s departure, expects the Japanese international to play a crucial role. “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,” O’Neil said.
Maeda’s arrival follows Ipswich’s promotion back to the Premier League after finishing second in the Championship last season under McKenna. The forward joins a growing list of new signings at Portman Road, which includes defender Issa Diop, winger Abdul Fatawu, striker Emersonn, and goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen. Additionally, defender Cedric Kipre and forward Chuba Akpom have joined on permanent transfers following successful loan spells.
International Experience
On the international stage, Maeda represented Japan at the 2026 World Cup. He featured in his country’s squad as they advanced to the last 32 of the tournament before being eliminated by Brazil.
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