Celtic hero Shunsuke Nakamura is "set for" a coaching role with the Japan national team, according to reports in his homeland.

The 44-year-old, who brought his playing career to an end last year, is currently part of the backroom at Yokohama FC.

He joined them as a coach in October, however, the former Hoops midfielder appears to be a man in demand.

Outlet Yahoo Japan claims that international boss Hajime Moriyasu is "keen" to add the free-kick specialist to his coaching staff.

The Samurai Blue are coming off a successful World Cup campaign which saw them reach the knockout stages and top a group containing both Germany and Spain. 

Nakamura could potentially be working with current Hoops players Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate and Tomoki Iwata if he takes the job.

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Meanwhile, Celtic transfer target Cho Gue-sung has broken his silence over interest from European clubs.

The Hoops made a recent bid for the South Korea international worth £3million, according to reports.

Bundesliga side Mainz are also said to be admirers of the 23-year-old who scored twice for his country at the World Cup in Qatar.

Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano previously revealed the striker had three offers on the table as he contemplates a move to Europe.

Romano also reports that MLS outfit Minnesota have offered €5million plus a 30 per cent add on for a future sale.

And now the player himself has addressed the reports linking him with a move away from K League One side Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.

Speaking to South Korean outlet Naver, the striker said: "I'm contemplating the timing of a European transfer while talking and communicating with director Park Ji-sung and coach Kim Sang-shik.

"I've seen many articles, but I haven't heard anything concrete yet. Not only me, but any player will have the same desire to go to Europe as soon as a good opportunity comes.

"It can be improved. Considering all aspects, we are thinking about how to do it most effectively.

"There are players who have to advance now within the team regarding the timing of the transfer, and there are players who have to prepare for the season together with the squad in the summer. They are all so different.

"In the end, I think that if you are a player, you set your final goal and go. All players will want to go to the EPL."