Cerezo Osaka have asked relegated Hannover about reacquiring Japan midfielder Hotaru Yamaguchi, the German tabloid Bild reported on Monday.

Yamaguchi has told Hannover he wants to return to his old club, and the two teams are expected to agree on terms, according to the Bild.

He signed with Hannover on a full transfer in January, but struggled for minutes. He suffered a season-ending face injury while playing for Japan in March.

Yamaguchi's international teammate Hiroshi Kiyotake has also left Hannover for Europa League champions Sevilla. Cerezo are currently second in the J. League second division behind Fagiano Okayama on goal difference.