Shinji Okazaki is poised to join Bundesliga club Stuttgart on Sunday following Japan's Asian Cup victory.
German club close to completing swoop for midfielder
Shinji Okazaki is poised to join Bundesliga club Stuttgart on Sunday following Japan's Asian Cup victory.
A deal has reportedly been struck between Stuttgart and Okazaki's club, Shimizu S-Pulse, to allow the midfielder to play in Germany as early as next week.
The 24-year-old, who helped Japan to a 1-0 win after extra-time in the cup final on Saturday, is expected to link up with his new team-mates before undergoing a medical on Monday.
Stuttgart boss Bruno Labbadia is looking forward to Okazaki's arrival but has warned not to expect too much too soon from the player.
He told the
Sudwest Presse: "It would be nice if he could help us immediately, but we have to be patient."
Meanwhile, Stuttgart's sporting director, Fredi Bobic, is considering a swoop for South Korea international Koo Ja-cheol.
Bobic, who is currently in Qatar on a scouting trip, was impressed by the youngster's display in the Asian Cup.
Koo's club, Jeju United, are understood to be ready to listen to reasonable offers, but Bobic says they will not be rushed into a decision over the 21-year-old.
