Daizen Maeda 'wanted to take on new challenge' but was denied transfer from Celtic

Daizen Maeda says he was keen on a summer move away from Celtic as he wanted to “take the next step” and seek a new challenge.

The 27-year-old forward was named as Scotland’s Player of the Year last season after netting 33 goals across all competitions in an impressive campaign.

He is currently with the Japan national team squad ahead of games against Mexico and the USA as the Samurai Blue continue preparations for next year’s World Cup.

Speaking to local media, he revealed that he had received an offer that he was keen to pursue, but the move was blocked due to Celtic not having suitable reinforcements.

Speaking to Japanese football magazine Soccer Digest, he said: “My joining of the national team was delayed, because I received an offer and I had been talking to Celtic until the last day of the transfer window, but it didn’t work out.

“I had been speaking to the club since before the end of last season and telling them that I wanted to take the next step, but Celtic hadn’t been able to strengthen their squad properly, so in the end, they told me they couldn’t let me go.

“Personally, I had agreed, so I wanted to take on the challenge, but we had league games and we lost in the Champions League qualifiers, so it was difficult.”

Maeda insists he will now put that behind him as he aims to help the Hoops to another successful season.

He said: “I’ve decided to stay at Celtic, so I want to do my best as a member of the team.”

The Scottish champions have been criticised by large sections of their fanbase, disappointed by their lack of activity during the transfer window.