Celtic appear to have already lined up a potential successor for outgoing star Daizen Maeda, with the Japanese forward on the verge of completing a move to Ipswich Town. The Hoops are accelerating negotiations with Bodø/Glimt striker Kasper Høgh, the very player they targeted in the January window.
Maeda has successfully completed his medical at Portman Road and is finalising personal terms on a deal understood to be worth around £10 million including add-ons. The 28-year-old’s departure marks the end of an era at Celtic Park, where his relentless energy, pressing intensity, and goal-scoring contributions have been vital to the club’s recent successes. Replacing such a dynamic presence was always going to be a significant challenge for manager Martin O’Neill and the recruitment team.
Why Kasper Høgh Fits the Bill as Maeda’s Replacement
According to reports from Danish and Norwegian media outlets, Celtic have found their ideal candidate in the 25-year-old Danish striker. Høgh has been instrumental in Bodø/Glimt’s transformation from domestic underdogs to European heavyweights. Since joining the Norwegian club in 2024 from Stabæk, the forward has scored 54 goals in 103 appearances across all competitions, showcasing clinical finishing, physical dominance, and impressive aerial ability.
His European pedigree is particularly noteworthy. Høgh has netted crucial goals against elite sides including Manchester City, Atlético Madrid, and Inter Milan in the Champions League. He also finished as joint-top scorer in the Europa League during a previous campaign. These performances against top-level opposition align perfectly with the profile Celtic are seeking for their attacking line, especially after the arrival of Colombian striker Camilo Duran from Qarabag last month.
January Interest Re-Emerges as Celtic Push for Deal
Celtic first showed serious interest in Høgh during the January 2026 transfer window, but those talks ultimately collapsed as Bodø/Glimt prioritised keeping their star asset for their Champions League campaign. Now, with Maeda’s exit creating both squad space and financial resources, the Hoops have returned with renewed vigour.
“Several European clubs are looking at Bodø/Glimt’s Kasper Høgh, who has made an excellent figure in the Norwegian top club. Celtic are making a serious attempt to buy the striker. It is consistent with Campo’s information that Celtic is trying to get a deal agreed with the parties, now that the Scottish traditional club is about to sell Daizen Maeda to Ipswich.”
— Danish outlet Campos, via latest reports July 24, 2026
Recent updates confirm that Celtic are working intensively to finalise terms with both the player and his club. Høgh is understood to be very interested in the move to Glasgow, viewing Celtic as an exciting platform to continue his development while competing regularly in domestic and European competitions. Bodø/Glimt, however, are in a strong financial position and are expected to demand a substantial fee—reports suggest in excess of £7-8 million, potentially rising higher given the player’s contract until December 2029.
Maeda’s Legacy at Celtic
Daizen Maeda’s time at Celtic has been nothing short of transformative. Since arriving in December 2021, the Japan international has made over 212 appearances, scoring 79 goals and contributing to an impressive trophy haul: five Scottish Premiership titles, three Scottish Cups, and two Scottish League Cups. His standout 2025/26 season saw him claim multiple individual awards, including PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year.
Maeda’s unique “Duracell Bunny” style—characterised by non-stop pressing, pace, and versatility across the forward line—made him a fan favourite and a nightmare for opponents. He scored nine goals in Celtic’s final seven games last season, playing a pivotal role in securing the domestic double. Sky Sports confirmed today that the forward has completed his medical with Ipswich, with an official announcement expected within the next 24 hours as of July 24, 2026.
Celtic’s Summer Recruitment Strategy Taking Shape
With only Camilo Duran (£6m from Qarabag) signed so far this window, pressure has been mounting on the Celtic board to strengthen the squad ahead of the new Premiership campaign and upcoming European fixtures. The pursuit of Høgh, alongside reported interest in other targets, signals a clear intent to bolster the attacking options with players who have proven themselves on the continental stage.
Høgh’s physicality, pace, and goal-scoring record in Norway and Europe make him a logical fit. In the current 2026 season, he has already contributed significantly for Bodø/Glimt, who sit near the top of the Eliteserien. His ability to perform against elite opposition provides confidence that he can make an immediate impact at Celtic Park.
The Challenge of Replacing Maeda’s Intensity
While no player can perfectly replicate Maeda’s relentless work rate and pressing, Høgh has demonstrated he can deliver impressive numbers in front of goal. His journey from Danish clubs like Randers, Hobro, and AOB to becoming a key figure at Bodø/Glimt highlights his development and adaptability. Celtic fans will be hoping that the Dane can form a potent partnership with Duran and provide the goals needed to challenge for silverware once again.
As negotiations continue, all eyes are on whether Celtic can get a deal over the line quickly. The timing is critical, with the new season fast approaching and European qualifying on the horizon. Bodø/Glimt manager Kjetil Knutsen has a reputation for developing talent, and his willingness to engage in talks suggests the Norwegian champions may be open to a significant sale if the price is right.
What This Means for Celtic Fans
This potential incoming transfer represents a strategic shift for Celtic. By moving on a proven performer like Maeda and reinvesting in a younger, high-potential striker with European experience, the club aims to maintain their attacking threat while building for the future. Fans have been vocal about the need for more signings this summer, and landing Høgh would go a long way toward addressing those concerns.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds on July 24, 2026. Will Kasper Høgh become the next big name at Celtic Park? The coming days could prove decisive in the transfer saga.