Arsenal join race to sign 33 goals Japanese star ahead of summer transfer window

Gidibam Web3 weeks ago

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Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal are reportedly showing interest in Celtic forward Daizen Maeda as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window.

Following a season that promised much, Arsenal now face the risk of ending without silverware. Liverpool have already secured the Premier League title, while a 1-0 home loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final has left the Gunners with work to do in Europe.

One area in need of reinforcement is the forward line. With Gabriel Jesus struggling for goals and Kai Havertz more suited to midfield, Arsenal are actively scouting strikers. While Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak remains Arteta’s preferred target, the Gunners are also monitoring several alternatives.

TBR Football reports that Arsenal are among a number of Premier League clubs tracking Celtic’s Maeda. The 27-year-old Japan international has impressed this season with his versatility, playing primarily as a left-winger but also featuring as a centre-forward.

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Maeda has scored 33 goals and registered 11 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions this season. His performances have earned him a nomination for the PFA Scotland Player of the Year award.

Arsenal - Daizen Maeda — **Celtic forward Daizen Maeda (Image credit: Getty Images)**

The former Yokohama F. Marinos forward, who is also the top scorer and joint-top assist provider in the Scottish Premiership, is reportedly valued at £25 million. Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham, Aston Villa, and several other English clubs have scouted him this season, while sides in Germany and Italy are also said to be interested.

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Despite growing interest, Maeda is thought to be happy at Celtic. According to reports, he is not actively pushing for a move. In March, Maeda told Sky Sports, “While I’m here, I always want to fight and play for Celtic. I want to keep focusing and playing for the team.”

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers also praised the forward’s contributions earlier in the season, saying: “He’s been absolutely brilliant wherever he’s played. He’s had an amazing season. He earns every penny and we feel as a club he deserves more.”

With 62 goals and 27 assists in 154 appearances for Celtic, Maeda’s track record and form this season make him a name to watch as the transfer window approaches.