Ipswich Town have strengthened their squad ahead of their Premier League return by signing Japan international Daizen Maeda from Celtic on a three-year deal.
The 28-year-old forward joins in a reported £10 million transfer after an outstanding spell in Scotland, where he established himself as one of Celtic's most influential players.
Maeda was also part of Japan's squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping his country reach the last 32 before their elimination by Brazil.
Speaking after completing the move, Maeda expressed his excitement about finally reaching England's top flight.
"I have always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and I'm delighted to make that dream come true with Ipswich," he said.
"The conversations I had with the club made me feel very welcome. I'll always work hard, score goals, create chances, and give everything I have for the team."
New Ipswich manager Gary O'Neil believes the experienced attacker will add quality and intensity to his squad following the club's promotion from the Championship.
"Daizen works incredibly hard, possesses outstanding physical qualities, and has consistently shown in Scotland that he can score goals and create opportunities," O'Neil said.
"He'll be a valuable member of this team."
Maeda becomes Ipswich's latest summer signing, joining defender Issa Diop, winger Abdul Fatawu, striker Emersonn, and goalkeeper Kayne van Oevelen.
The club has also secured permanent deals for Cedric Kipre and Chuba Akpom after successful loan spells last season.
Maeda leaves Celtic after four and a half memorable years in Glasgow, having scored 79 goals in 212 appearances while helping the club win five Scottish Premiership titles, three Scottish Cups, and two League Cups.
In an emotional farewell to supporters, the Japanese forward described his time at Celtic as the most special period of his career.
"The last four and a half years at Celtic have been the most special chapter of my career and my life," he wrote on social media.
"It has been an incredible honour to wear this badge, play for this amazing club, and share unforgettable moments with my teammates, the staff, and the best supporters in the world."
"Thank you for standing by me through every high and low."
When Maeda arrived from Yokohama F. Marinos in early 2022, initially on loan during Ange Postecoglou's reign, few expected the impact he would go on to make.
Renowned for his pace, tireless work ethic, and pressing ability, Maeda became indispensable to Celtic, particularly during the 2025-26 campaign.
After struggling for goals early in the season and with Celtic trailing Hearts in the title race, Maeda produced a remarkable turnaround.
He scored seven goals in five league matches, including two decisive winners that helped swing the championship battle back in Celtic's favour.
His defining moment came on the final day of the Premiership season, firing home an 87th-minute winner against Hearts to seal the title in dramatic fashion.
He also marked his final appearance for the club by opening the scoring in Celtic's Scottish Cup final victory over Dunfermline Athletic.
In a farewell statement, Celtic praised Maeda's immense contribution.
"His relentless energy and vital goals were an essential part of the team over the past four-and-a-half years, and he became a firm favourite with Celtic supporters," the club said.
"Everyone at Celtic thanks Daizen for everything he has given the club and wishes him every success at Ipswich Town."
