Leicester City are nearing a move for Mainz star Shinji Okazaki.

The Foxes have been linked with the Japan international for months now and according to the Leicester Mercury, will increase their pursuit in the coming weeks.

News that Mainz signed Okazaki's fellow Blue Samurai striker Yoshinori Muto has opened the door for a fresh move for the 29-year old who netted 12 goals in the Bundesliga last season.

The Foxes have watched Okazaki on a number of occasions this term and it is expected that a bid will soon be made after their £8million offer in January was turned down.