Gamba Osaka are in talks to acquire FC Tokyo and national team defender Akira Kaji, an FC Tokyo official said without being named on Thursday.

"We want him to remain here with us (in Tokyo), but it appears as if he wants to play in Kansai," the official said, suggesting that FC Tokyo is prepared to allow the transfer of Kaji, if all conditions are met.

Kaji, who turns 26 on Friday, played for Cerezo Osaka and Oita Trinita before moving to FC Tokyo in 2002.

He was named to the national squad in 2003 and sealed his position on the right side of the pitch. Kaji has been capped 35 times and helped contribute to Japan booking their place in this year's World Cup finals in Germany.