Celtic star likely to ‘outgrow’ Hoops as pundit reckons he’s Premier League ready

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Celtic won’t want to lose any of their key stars this summer when the transfer window rolls around.

The Hoops made big profits last summer while also selling Kyogo for £10million back in January which, for a 30-year-old striker is no small potatoes.

A number of stars have garnered attention from other clubs, though, such as Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter-Vickers, Greg Taylor and Nicolas Kuhn.

The one man Celtic cannot afford to say goodbye to is 30-goal striker Daizen Maeda who is a standout favourite for player of the year this season.

• READ MORE: Why Brendan Rodgers is set to find out how Daizen Maeda really feels at Celtic

Tam McManus says Daizen Maeda could ‘outgrow’ Celtic

But Tam McManus feels the Japanese is beginning to find form that, if he can maintain it, will see him “outgrow” Glasgow and Celtic and that could cause the player to chase the riches of the Premier League.

“I think Celtic will be desperate to get him tied down,” McManus said on PLZ Soccer. “But I think there’s got to be some admiration from down south.

“He looks perfect for the Premier League. Down there it’s all pace and power, athleticism.

“It depends on what he wants to do, what is he, 27? He might think this is an opportunity for him off the back of a great season at Celtic, to go to the Premier League.

“I’ve no doubt Celtic have sold these guys, getting him and Kyogo over and saying, ‘Listen, do well at Celtic and the next step is Premier League’.

“I think when you look at it, it’ll depend on the player. If he wants to go Celtic will get a big fee for him but if he feels he wants to stay then that’ll be great for Celtic supporters.

“I think there’ll come a time where he possibly outgrows Celtic. If he doesn’t go this season and he starts next season and scores 15/20 goals before Christmas, somebody will want to buy him.”

What Brendan Rodgers said about Maeda new Celtic deal

Brendan Rodgers has made it clear he wants to sign Maeda to a new contract and talks are already beginning between the manager and the club’s money men.

And the Irishman will surely have his versatile forward down as a priority.

Speaking on fresh terms being offered, Rodgers said: “Absolutely, if there is that possibility to do that. I’ve spoken with Dermot [Desmond] and the club and spoken with the player. Hopefully in the future that is something that can be done.

“He’s been absolutely brilliant for us this season. Wherever he’s played, however he’s played, he’s had an amazing season. So of course you would love to tie up one of your best players.”