Ipswich sign Japan forward Maeda from Celtic

Ipswich signed Japan forward Daizen Maeda from Scottish champions Celtic in a deal worth a reported £10 million ($13 million) on Saturday.

Maeda agreed a three-year contract with the newly-promoted Premier League club.

In four and a half years with Celtic, Maeda won five Scottish titles, three Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups.

The 28-year-old scored 79 goals in 212 appearances for Celtic.

He was a member of the Japan squad that reached the last 32 at the World Cup before losing to Brazil.

"I am very proud to sign for Ipswich Town. I have always dreamed of playing in the Premier League and I am very happy I can realise that dream with this club," he said.

"I have loved all of the conversations with the club and they have made me feel very welcome.

"My aim will always be to battle hard, score goals, and provide assists for my team – I will always run and give everything that I have."

Ipswich, under new manager Gary O'Neil, have also added Issa Diop, Abdul Fatawu, Emersonn and Kayne van Oevelen in the transfer window.

O'Neil, who took over after Kieran McKenna resigned in the close-season, believes Maeda will make a big impact at Portman Road.

"He works extremely hard and has impressive physical attributes, while also proving over a number of years playing in Scotland that he has the ability to score goals and create for his team," O'Neil said.