Maeda’s appeal is clear. The Japan international combines relentless running with direct movement behind defensive lines, qualities that can translate effectively to the Premier League.
His Celtic record gives the proposed move substance:
The forward was also recognised by his peers in Scotland and included in the PFA Scotland team of the season. For Ipswich, that profile represents more than a squad addition: it is a potential source of goals, pressing and transition threat.
The reported Maeda pursuit is part of a busy window for Ipswich. The club has already invested heavily in attack, including a reported £26.6 million move for Emersonn from Toulouse.
Abdul Fawatu, Issa Diop, Cedric Kipre and Chuba Akpom are also understood to have joined or returned permanently as O’Neil reshapes the squad. The manager’s arrival has therefore brought a clear change in recruitment direction after Kieran McKenna’s departure.
Maeda would add experience to a group that needs to adapt quickly to the demands of top-flight football. His ability to operate wide or through the centre could also give O’Neil flexibility when facing deeper Premier League defences.
Ipswich are scheduled to open their campaign against Sunderland on 22 August, making the timing of any deal important. If completed, Maeda would have limited time to settle but could immediately become one of the most recognisable figures in the new-look attack.
The next step is whether negotiations turn reported progress into a completed transfer before the season begins.