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The legendary Japanese striker, set to turn 59 next month and is the world's oldest professional footballer, has signed a loan deal until June with Japanese third division side Fukushima United.

The transfer means Miura might feature in the J.League - encompassing the highest tiers of football in Japan - for the initial occasion in five years.

The former Japan striker, who began his professional journey with Brazilian side Santos in 1986, failed to score in just over an hour across seven outings last season while on loan at fourth-tier club Atletico Suzuka.

"My passion for football hasn't changed, regardless of my age," he said as he gears up for a 41st season as a professional footballer.

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

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

The veteran, who has also played club football in Italy, Croatia and Australia, 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, two years after his surprising exclusion from the squad for Japan's first World Cup finals appearance.

Miura, who has talked of continuing his career into his seventh decade, 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.