Mainz sign Chelsea target Japanese international Yoshinori Muto

Berlin, May 31 (IANS): German Bundesliga side Mainz have signed Japanese international Yoshinori Muto, the "Nuellfuenfer" said in an official statement, said a media report on Sunday.

Mainz secured their first signing of the summer transfer window as former FC Tokyo striker Yoshinori Muto penned on a four-year deal, which keeps him with the Germans until June 2019, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We already know for a long time that Yoshinori Muto brings the qualities to reinforce our offense. Therefore we were very anxious during the transfer negotiations in Tokyo. We are very pleased that he opted for us. Especially since he made his decision very consciously in relation with the sportive prospects at Mainz," manager Christian Heidel said.

Muto turned professional in 2013 after signing a contract with J-League club FC Tokyo. He scored 24 goals in 54 appearances between then and now.

Mainz coach Martin Schmidt added: "We have observed Yoshinori Muto for a long time as we want to make sure that he fits to our style of play. He is fast, agile and a technically gifted winger, which give us additional quality on our squad."

Muto's new club completed the Bundesliga season 2014-2015 on the 11th position.

The Japanese striker had confirmed interest from Chelsea earlier, however, has decided to choose Mainz over the English champions.