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The legendary Japanese striker, who turns 59 in February and is recognized globally as football's most senior pro, has finalized a temporary transfer until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura might feature in the Japanese professional league - encompassing the highest tiers of football in Japan - for the first time in half a decade.

The ex-international forward, who began his professional journey with Brazilian side Santos in 1986, did not find the net in just over an hour across seven outings last season while on loan at JFL side Atletico Suzuka.

"My passion for football hasn't changed, regardless of my age," he said as he prepares for a forty-first campaign as a professional footballer.

"I'm very grateful to be presented with this chance. I vow I will play with all my heart to make a contribution. Let's make history together!"

Known as 'King Kazu' in Japan, this will be Miura's fourth loan since 2022 from J2 League side Yokohama FC.

Miura, who has also featured in Australia, Italy, and Croatia, signed for the club in 2005 but has not played a minute for them since 2020.

He netted 55 goals in 89 games in an career for the national team that concluded in 2000, shortly following his surprising exclusion from the squad for Japan's maiden FIFA World Cup campaign.

Miura, who has expressed a desire for playing until he is 60, said he was ready to "embrace a fresh test" after being relegated last season to Japan's regional leagues.

Fukushima ended the season in tenth place in the 20-team J3 League last season.