Sources: Player who's spearheaded Celtic title charge could finally leave this summer

Daizen Maeda’s fine recent form for Celtic has seen him attract more attention from interested clubs ahead of a likely exit in the upcoming summer window.

Maeda’s outstanding recent performances have fired Celtic firmly into title contention ahead of their winner-takes-all showdown against Hearts.

The Japan international was close to leaving Parkhead last year, and is widely expected to move on this summer after four-and-a-half successful seasons at the club.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, his strong form since the Premiership split has seen more clubs enter the race for his services ahead of the transfer window.

Celtic’s transfer plans are set to revolve around bolstering their attacking ranks, with a big-name striker signing on the horizon to replace Maeda.

Breaking news on latest signings, departures, and contract news from the Parkhead boardroom.

Sources have told Football Insider that Premier League clubs are interested in Maeda amid his standout post-split form.

The 28-year-old has revealed to Japanese media that a move to the English top flight is “a dream”, and it is his aim to secure such a move after the World Cup.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “I think this could be the year that Maeda leaves Celtic. He really struggled for form at the start of the season, but has come to the fore in recent weeks.

“He’s been spearheading Celtic’s title campaign in recent weeks. I think he’s got six goals in four games since the split, so it’s a positive for Celtic that he has turned it around.”

“I’m sure, because of that form, those interested clubs will be sitting up and taking notice of Maeda, and obviously he’s entering the final year of his contract at Celtic Park this summer as well.”

Motherwell striker Maswanhise is primed to end the season as the Premiership’s top scorer, with 17 goals in 34 appearances up to now.

He is a target for Celtic this summer as they line up a replacement for Maeda, while Kelechi Iheanacho’s future remains uncertain.

Despite their interest, sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that English Championship clubs are keen on Maswanhise, and he could snub a move to Parkhead in favour of moving back south of the border.