Hull City have registered their interest in Stade de Reims winger Keito Nakamura, as the newly promoted Premier League club looks to bolster their squad with a player who shone at the World Cup.

The 26-year-old Japan international started every one of his country's four matches at the tournament, stepping up impressively after Brighton's Kaoru Mitoma was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Nakamura scored one goal, contributed an assist, and earned a place in Opta's team of the group stage. Japan pushed Brazil close in the last-32 before Gabriel Martinelli's last-minute winner ended their run.

Valuation a stumbling block

Stade de Reims have placed a £21.5 million price tag on Nakamura — a figure that has already put off several interested clubs. Everton, Bournemouth, and Fulham have all been linked with the winger in the past, and Villarreal and Besiktas also circled last summer, with bids reaching up to £15.5 million. None could agree terms.

Despite Reims' relegation from Ligue 1, Nakamura is determined to leave France and is set on a move to the Premier League. Hull, who have spent an estimated £76 million across 11 signings this summer — including fellow Japan international Hidemasa Morita — are pressing ahead with their pursuit.

A standout season despite relegation

Nakamura finished the 2024-25 Ligue 1 campaign as Reims' top scorer with 14 goals, before recording 11 goals in 32 appearances as the club dropped into the second tier. His ability to cut inside, his sharp finishing, and his relentless work rate have established him as one of the most exciting wide forwards outside Europe's top five leagues.

Born and raised in Japan, Nakamura began his career in the Gamba Osaka academy before moving to Europe at 18. Loan spells at FC Twente, Sint-Truiden, and Juniors OO were followed by a permanent move to LASK Linz, then to Stade de Reims in 2023. At international level, he has scored 11 goals in 29 appearances for Japan, including six in his first six matches.

Broader appeal beyond the pitch