Wolfsburg To Land Hasebe Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg are expected to complete the signing of Japanese midfielder Makoto Hasebe from Urawa Red Diamo

The Japanese youngster is expected in Germany on Thursday, and if the medical checks prove unproblematic, then he is due to sign for the ‘Wölfe’ on Friday.

The 23 year old was a target for Wolfsburg back in the summer of 2006, but at the time a deal could not be reached with his club. Hasebe is now available on a free transfer.

“I haven’t spoken with the player” admitted trainer Felix Magath, “But I have seen him on videos.

“He is a midfielder with both defensive and offensive capabilities. Our scouting department have been tracking him for a long time and really rate him” he added.

Hasebe will become the first Japanese player to play for Wolfsburg.

“We don’t want to take the third step before we have taken the first to conquer the Japanese market- we’ll leave that to Bayern” quipped Magath.

“There are very good footballers in Japan, who are technically strong and fit. Therefore, I believe that it makes sense to invest in such talent.

“I feel we need elements like Hasebe in our team.”

Hasebe is not a playmaker, but rather a player who can act as a bridge between defence and attack.

With his contract expiring in January, he is also a relatively cheap option for Wolfsburg.