News photoKazuyoshi Miura

KOBE (Kyodo) Former Japan striker Kazuyoshi Miura and Vissel Kobe have agreed to extend their contract for a fourth season and will seal the deal early next month, officials of the J. League first-division side said Sunday.

Although the term and details of the new deal were not disclosed, Kobe officials said the two sides, who have already undergone several rounds of negotiations, will sign the papers some time after Jan. 5 when the club office reopens after the winter holidays.

"There are a lot of things that need to be done. I hope to take it step by step," said the 36-year-old Miura, also known as "King Kazu."