Ok, in my opinion, there is ABSOLUTELY ZERO CHANCE of this transfer story ever making it past the rumour stage.
None.
The Daizen Maeda to Southampton link was one that was broken yesterday and it was met with utter incredulity by the Celtic fans.
I’ll admit that the English Championship is a decent league to play in.
I’ll even admit that if Maeda did decide to move to St Mary’s, they could probably offer him a contract double that of which Celtic could pay.
But other than money, this supposed move offers nothing in terms of career progression for the Japanese forward.
Now, when I say that the Championship is a decent league to play in, that’s where Maeda is likely to find himself as the south coast side struggle this season in England’s top flight.
Sitting rock bottom, at the turn of the year, it is rare for a side in that position to survive the impending drop and that’s exactly what will happen should this speculation turn into an actual move.
Celtic fans can be relieved to hear it’s only interest at the moment. Saints doing their due diligence in Scotland in coming weeks & Daizen Maeda is on their watchlist, as are Rangers and Aberdeen players.
I’d be shocked if #Celtic allowed exit.
Championship won’t appeal either. https://t.co/3hX90Erdr4— Mark Hendry (@mhendry92) January 7, 2023
Champions League football, the opportunity to win silverware, the continuation of his international career and playing in front of 60,000 fans every second week.
All that could be forfeited by a move to Southampton.
Lucky for us, it’s just speculation Mark. That, and nothing else.