Scottish Gossip: Maeda, Engels, McGregor, Iheanacho, Hjerto-Dahl, Ernst
According to Bbc.
Context
28-year-old forward Daizen Maeda is a crucial player for Celtic, having contributed significantly to the team in the Scottish Premiership. His possible departure, along with that of Arne Engels, raises questions about the depth of the squad and the need for new reinforcement in attack or midfield during the transfer window.
Why this matters
The departure of Daizen Maeda could significantly impact Celtic's attack, which is already facing challenges in retaining key players. The Scottish club, which has a rich history in Premiership football, may need a boost in the transfer market to compensate for the possible loss of the Japanese striker, especially considering his importance in the team.
Main conclusions
- Scottish Gossip: Maeda, Engels, McGregor, Iheanacho, Hjerto-Dahl, Ernst.
- Celtic face the possibility of losing Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels in this transfer window, while Rangers look to reinforce their squad after a number of departures.
- Daizen Maeda remains central to Celtic's plans.
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is preparing for the possibility of losing 28-year-old Japanese striker Daizen Maeda and 22-year-old Belgian midfielder Arne Engels in this summer transfer window. O'Neill would like to keep Maeda in the team, allowing the player to play out the final year of his contract, just as the iconic Henrik Larsson did more than two decades ago.
Additionally, O'Neill plans to discuss the future of Celtic captain Callum McGregor, who has recently changed agents amid rumors of interest from other clubs in the 33-year-old midfielder. Striker Kelechi Iheanacho is training alongside Danish striker William Osula at the Seedorf Football Academy in Manchester, with O'Neill expressing an interest in re-signing the 29-year-old.
Negotiations between Feyenoord and Tjark Ernst's current club, Hertha Berlin, are progressing, with Celtic and Wolfsburg also showing interest in the 23-year-old goalkeeper. Brondby sporting director Julius Ohnesorge admitted they are open to selling Benjamin Tahirovic, but there has been no approach from Celtic for the 23-year-old midfielder.
Millwall have entered the race for Celtic striker Johnny Kenny, with Bolton Wanderers also interested in securing the 23-year-old's services on a permanent basis following a successful spell with the team which culminated in promotion to the Championship. Hellas Verona's sporting director, Sean Sogliano, revealed that they will listen to offers for 23-year-old Scottish striker Kieron Bowie, but only at a fair price.
On the other hand, Rangers coach Derek McInnes expressed the need for more reinforcements in his team, but stressed that it will be necessary to release players before making new acquisitions. Tromso's Jens Hjerto-Dahl says he is calm about his future despite Rangers having a £5.3m bid rejected for him. The 20-year-old midfielder admitted that he wants to complete a move to Rangers this summer, despite interest from Besiktas.
Finally, Beveren have reached an agreement for a six-figure fee to sign 25-year-old Kilmarnock left-back Dominic Thompson, who will travel to Belgium to undergo a medical and finalize personal terms. St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari has decided not to move forward with the signing of Liam McCarron after the 25-year-old left-back completed a training camp with the team following his departure from Boston United.
What happens next
With the summer approaching, Celtic should intensify their negotiations to guarantee the permanence of Maeda and Engels. Furthermore, Callum McGregor's situation will be a priority, given his central role in midfield and interest from other clubs, which could influence Celtic's decisions in this transfer window.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Daizen Maeda?
Daizen Maeda is a 28-year-old Japanese striker who currently plays for Celtic.
What is Daizen Maeda's contractual situation?
Daizen Maeda is in the final year of his contract with Celtic.
How interested are Celtic in Kelechi Iheanacho?
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has expressed an interest in re-signing Kelechi Iheanacho, who is training at the Seedorf Football Academy.
What is known about Tjark Ernst?
Tjark Ernst is a 23-year-old goalkeeper from Hertha Berlin, with negotiations ongoing with Feyenoord, and Celtic and Wolfsburg have also shown interest
e.
What is the situation with Callum McGregor?
Callum McGregor, Celtic captain and 33-year-old player, has recently changed agents and there are rumors of interest from other clubs.