Transfer news: Shinji Okazaki leaves Stuttgart to join Mainz

The 27 year-old striker, who scored twice during Japan’s unsuccessful Confederations Cup run, agreed to a three-year contract after both clubs came to terms on an undisclosed transfer fee.

“We’re really pleased that Shinji Okazaki has decided to join us,” Mainz coach Thomas Tuchel told bundesliga.com. “He’s a player with attributes which are very important for the way we play football.

“He’s an absolute team player and is a very versatile attacker, and always very dangerous and potent in front of goal.”

Okazaki joined Stuttgart from Shimizu S-Pulse in January 2011, scoring 10 goals in 63 league appearances.

“Shinji has decided to seek a new challenge after two and a half years with VFB,” said Stuttgart’s sporting director Fredi Bobic.

“Since he only had a year left on his contract, we were open to negotiations and have agreed to the transfer, not least because Shinji has given outstanding service to VFB. We wish him all the best with his new club.”

via Transfer news: Shinji Okazaki leaves Stuttgart to join Mainz | Sky Sports.