Everton Want To Sign This 29 Year Old Attacker: Is He A Good Signing For The Toffees?

Everton’s attacking struggles have been clear for months, and their search for attacking strength could now take them north of the border. The club has shown interest in Celtic forward Daizen Maeda, according to a report from Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider.

O’Rourke said that the player “would be interested in moving to the Premier League to play at the highest level,” showing his desire for a new challenge. Everton view the Japanese attacker as a possible addition who could improve their front line under David Moyes.

Everton Eye Daizen Maeda Move

However, O’Rourke hinted that a move looks more likely in the summer since Celtic don’t want to sell him mid-season. Yet, with Jack Grealish already playing on the left, Moyes must decide how to fit him into the lineup.

Maeda can also play centrally, and that might be where Everton see him operating as a number nine. For now, Celtic remain firm in their stance to keep him, though the situation could change if the player becomes unsettled in Glasgow. This report comes alongside other transfer talks. The former Everton chief urged the club to strengthen the striker position, while Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus has also attracted interest from AC Milan.

Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, Pete O’Rourke said: “I’m sure the player himself will be interested in a move to the Premier League to play at the highest level possible. For Everton, it’s an interesting link because Maeda is probably best operating down the left wing, but Grealish is there right now as well, and he isn’t going to get ahead of Grealish in that role.

Obviously, he has played up front as well, and maybe that’s where Everton sees him, as a number nine rather than a wide forward. But for now, I think Celtic will be looking to keep hold of Maeda. It’s maybe something that might be revisited in the summer window, especially if the player is unsettled in Glasgow. It might be best for everybody if there’s a parting of the ways.”

Why Maeda Could Fit Everton’s Plans?

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – OCTOBER 02: Daizen Maeda of Celtic arrives at the stadium prior to the UEFA Europa League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between Celtic FC and SC Braga at Celtic Park on October 02, 2025 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Daizen Maeda fits the attacking style Everton aim to develop under David Moyes. The 27-year-old’s work rate and pressing are his finest traits, often forcing defenders into mistakes high up the pitch. His pace and off-the-ball runs could help stretch defences and create space for teammates. Beyond his work rate, Maeda’s finishing adds more boost to his game. He scored 33 goals across all competitions last season, showing his ability to get into scoring positions and convert chances.

However, his technical control in tight areas worries some analysts, who believe Premier League defenders could expose it. Maeda produced impressive numbers for Celtic last season, scoring 16 goals and providing 10 assists in the league, plus four more in the Champions League.

If Everton sign the Japanese for a reasonable fee, Maeda could become a valuable addition to their attack, as long as Moyes finds the right balance with players like Grealish. However, his success depends on how well he adapts to the pace of the Premier League. For Everton, signing a player with Maeda’s pressing energy and movement could bring the attacking intensity they have lacked in recent seasons.