Yokohama keen to wrap up Nakamura deal

Yokohama F-Marinos are still in talks with Shunsuke Nakamura concerning a deal to bring the Celtic midfielder back to Japan despite reported interest from Spain.

"Contract talks are still continuing with the player," Yokohama's chief media officer Masanori Hakamada said on Friday. "We hope for a speedy conclusion to the matter."

Nakamura, who is reportedly demanding $2.5 million a year, will leave Scottish side Celtic for free at the end of June when his contract expires.

Atletico Madrid and Espanyol are reportedly interested in signing the 30-year-old, who left Yokohama for Italy's Reggina in 2002 before signing for Celtic three years later.

Nakamura won three Scottish Premier League titles with Celtic and picked up Player of the Year honours in 2006-07.

The free-kick specialist has expressed his desire to finish his career in Japan but has also made no secret of his admiration for Spanish soccer.

Yokohama scrapped plans for a bold swoop for Nakamura during January's transfer window with backers Nissan Motor Co feeling the pinch from the global economic downturn.