Japan striker Atsushi Yanagisawa has turned down a move abroad by signing an extension to his contract with Kashima Antlers, the J. League First Division club said Tuesday.
The club said it had received a number of offers from overseas but had agreed a new deal with Yanagisawa for next year.
"I've had offers to move abroad and was tempted by them. But I thought about which club it would be best to play for to get into the national squad for next year's World Cup," Yanagisawa said.
"I can play in a number of top class games in the J. League and believe I can get into the best shape by playing for Kashima."
Italian First Division club Perugia was thought to be on the verge of signing the 24-year-old, who has scored nine goals in 22 international appearances.