Urawa Reds star Yuki Abe is set to join English Championship club Leicester City.

The 28-year old Japan international has been linked with the Foxes for the past few days and it is believed that a transfer is close with Abe set to undergo a medical.

Abe said he was looking for a new challenge and hoped the move went through as soon as possible.

"I believe there is a new challenge waiting for me there and I'm hoping to finalise the move," Abe said.

However, there is a chance that the move may break down as Abe could struggle to obtain a work permit as he hasn't played the required number of internationals recently.