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Maeda arrives in Suffolk ahead of £10m Ipswich move

·By Junior Yekini
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Maeda arrives in Suffolk ahead of £10m Ipswich move

Ipswich Town

Celtic forward Daizen Maeda arrived in Suffolk on Thursday ahead of his £10million move to Ipswich Town, according to Sky Sports News.

The Japan international is set to undergo a medical on Friday before finalising the paperwork on his contract. Sky Sports News had revealed on Tuesday that the two clubs had agreed an initial fee of £8million, plus a further £2million in add-ons, for the forward's services.

Maeda has been a key attacking figure for Celtic in recent seasons, known for his relentless work rate and pressing as much as his end product, and his departure would mark the end of a productive spell at Parkhead. The move comes as newly-promoted Ipswich look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of a return to the Premier League, having secured an immediate promotion back to the top flight after finishing second in the Championship.

For Celtic, the sale continues a summer in which the Scottish champions have been working to balance their books while still competing domestically and in Europe, with Colombian striker Camilo Duran having arrived as the club's only incoming signing of the window so far. Celtic have also been credited with interest in Paderborn midfielder Mika Baur as they continue to reshape their squad following Maeda's expected exit.

Should the move be completed as expected, it would represent a significant fee for a newly-promoted club, reflecting the level of regard in which Maeda is held following his performances in Scottish football since his move to Celtic from Yokohama F. Marinos.

Maeda has been a regular fixture in Celtic's forward line since his arrival, contributing significantly to the club's recent domestic dominance with his tireless running and eye for goal from wide and central attacking positions. His combination of pace and pressing intensity has made him a popular figure among supporters, and his departure will represent the loss of a proven goal threat as Brendan Rodgers looks to reshape his forward options.

For Ipswich Town, the signing would represent a statement of intent as the club looks to build a squad capable of establishing itself in the Premier League following promotion. Maeda's experience of winning titles at Celtic, allied to his work-rate and directness, is expected to make him a popular addition among Ipswich's own supporters.