Ipswich Town have signed Japan forward Daizen Maeda from Celtic on a reported £10m transfer, the club confirmed on Friday. The 28‑year‑old has agreed a three‑year contract as the Tractor Boys prepare for life back in the Premier League.
What the move means for Ipswich
Maeda arrives at Portman Road having been a regular in a dominant Celtic side since January 2022. His arrival is the most eye‑catching in a summer recruitment drive that has already brought several additions to the squad as Ipswich look to consolidate their top‑flight status after promotion.
- Transfer fee: reported £10m to Celtic
- Contract length: three years
- Previous record at Celtic: 79 goals in 212 appearances
The club’s manager, Gary O’Neil, who took charge following Kieran McKenna’s departure, welcomed Maeda and outlined the forward’s attributes. Ipswich have previously announced the arrivals of defender Issa Diop, winger Abdul Fatawu, striker Emersonn and goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen. In addition, defenders and forwards who impressed on loan — Cedric Kipre and Chuba Akpom — have signed permanently.
"I have always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and I am very happy I can realise that dream with this club," Maeda told Ipswich’s website.
Player record and international pedigree
Maeda was part of Japan’s squad at the 2026 World Cup, where the team reached the last 32 before being eliminated by Brazil. During his time at Celtic he collected multiple honours and a significant goals tally.
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Appearances for Celtic | 212 |
| Goals for Celtic | 79 |
| Major honours at Celtic | Five league titles, three Scottish Cups, two League Cups |
For Ipswich supporters, the signing represents both a statement of intent and a response to the step‑up in competition. Maeda has spoken of his desire to work hard, score goals and provide assists, while O’Neil emphasised the player’s physical attributes and proven goalscoring record in Scotland.
As the new season approaches, Maeda will be expected to adapt to the demands of the Premier League and to the club’s tactical plans under O’Neil. Locally, the transfer will increase excitement among fans returning to Portman Road for top‑flight fixtures and signal the club’s commitment to bolstering the squad ahead of a challenging campaign.
