Gamba Osaka's Brazilian striker Patric is considering applying for Japanese citizenship with an eye on playing for Japan at the 2018 World Cup finals in Russia, Brazilian media reported Friday.
The 28-year-old Patric joined Gamba in July 2014 and played a pivotal role in helping them win a domestic treble that year in the club's first season back in the top flight.
He scored 12 league goals in 32 appearances last year and bagged a double as Gamba beat Urawa Reds 2-1 to retain the Emperor's Cup on New Year's Day.