Tadanari Lee nears Southampton move

Japanese international Tadanari Lee is close to completing a move to Championship club Southampton, according to Nikkan.

The report has claimed that Lee's club Sanfrecce Hiroshima have agreed a transfer fee with the Saints.

However, the move could still fall through over work permit issues. The 26-year-old has only been awarded ten caps for the national side, which falls short of the requirement for appearances.

Southampton, though, remain hopeful that Lee will be awarded special dispensation.

The striker has scored 26 goals in the last two seasons.