Ipswich Town have signed Japan forward Daizen Maeda from Celtic on a three-year deal.
The 28-year-old joins the Premier League side in a move reported to be worth around £10m. He was part of Japan’s 2026 World Cup squad, helping the team reach the last 32 before losing to Brazil.
Maeda scored 79 goals in 212 games for Celtic and won five league titles, three Scottish Cups and two League Cups during his time in Glasgow.
Speaking to Ipswich’s website, Maeda said playing in the Premier League had long been a dream and that the club’s welcome convinced him it was the right move. He pledged to work tirelessly, score goals and create chances for his teammates.
Ipswich manager Gary O’Neil, appointed this summer after Kieran McKenna’s departure, expects Maeda to be an important part of the squad. He praised the forward’s work rate, physical qualities and proven record in Scotland.
Maeda arrives after the Tractor Boys’ promotion to the top flight, secured by finishing second in the Championship last season under McKenna.
Ipswich have also added defender Issa Diop, winger Abdul Fatawu, striker Emersonn and goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen, while defender Cedric Kipre and forward Chuba Akpom have signed permanently following successful loans.
In a message to the “Celtic family” on social media, Maeda called his four-and-a-half years at the club the most special period of his career, saying it was an honour to wear the badge and thanking supporters for standing by him through highs and lows.