Japanese winger Keito Nakamura scored a crucial equalizer for the Samurai Blue in a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Arlington.
The 24-year-old Stade de Reims forward controlled the ball on the edge of the box and fired a precise right-footed shot past Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
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Nakamura's performance brought his international tally to 10 goals in 25 appearances since his 2023 debut, stepping up in the absence of injured star Kaoru Mitoma.
His distinctive style, wearing micro shin guards with low socks for mobility, also caught attention.
The display sparked transfer speculation, particularly from Italian clubs.
Manager Gian Piero Gasperini is reportedly keen on integrating Nakamura into his system, according to transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio.
Di Marzio noted that Nakamura fits Gasperini's need for wingers in formations like 4-4-2 or 4-3-3, and could be a target for Roma.
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He also mentioned that Dutch winger Summerville, who played in the same match, remains on Gasperini's radar after a previous attempt to sign him in January.
Nakamura scored 12 goals and provided three assists for Reims in the 2024-25 season.
Previous bids from Beşiktaş and Villarreal were rejected, and his World Cup performance is likely to increase his valuation.
“As a winger, my job is to dribble through the lines and get goals and assists,” Nakamura said.
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In other World Cup action, Australia beat Turkey 2-0, and Germany thrashed Curaçao 7-1.
