Mainz chief Christian Heidel admits they're keen on FC Tokyo striker Yoshinori Muto.

FC Tokyo has confirmed they're in advanced negotiations with Chelsea over the youngster's sale. But with nothing yet signed off, Mainz have come forward with a counter offer.

"We cannot deny that we know the player and have asked about him," Heidel.

Sponichi says Mainz are competing with Chelsea and Bayer Leverkusen for Muto, who is rated at €5.5 million by his J-League club.

It's suggested Muto would prefer a move to Mainz as he has a better chance of regular football.