Bayern bring in Usami from Japan

FC Bayern München have agreed a deal to sign teenage Japanese midfielder Takashi Usami on a one-year loan from Gamba Osaka.

The 19-year-old was the 2010 young player of the year in Japan and will become the first player from his country to represent Bayern, who have an option to make the transfer permanent next summer. "It's not every day you get given an opportunity like this," said Usami, who was called up to the Japan squad for the first time earlier this month. "I'm still struggling to imagine myself playing in such a big league with so many star players. It's a huge challenge."