Urawa Reds have agreed to terms with Slovenian defender Branko Ilic, the club announced on Wednesday.

The 32-year-old, who has 64 caps for his country’s national team, most recently played for 2015-16 UEFA Champions League participants Astana.

Mihailo Petrovic is eager to strengthen the Reds’ backline after witnessing more collapses this term which left them without major silverware again.

And Ilic is looking forward to the new challenge, commenting: “I’m incredibly happy to be joining one of Japan’s big clubs. 

“I will play with all of my strength to help Urawa Reds win and I look forward to sharing the joy of victory with our supporters.”