Cerezo Osaka are aiming to strengthen their bid for promotion with the signing of former Omiya Ardija goalkeeper Takashi Kitano on Thursday.

The 32-year-old, who has recorded a total of 258 appearances in the MEIJI YASUDA J1 League, had been a free agent since the conclusion of the 2014 season.

“I want to take this opportunity seriously and unite with my team-mates and supporters,” Kitano told Cerezo Osaka’s official website.

The Kincho Stadium outfit are currently fourth in the MEIJI YASUDA J2 League, picking up 44 points from 27 rounds.