Omiya Ardija on Tuesday announced the full signing of striker Genki Omae from Shimizu S-Pulse.

The 27-year-old captain led the IAI Stadium Nihondaira residents back to the top flight with 18 goals in last season’s MEIJI YASUDA J2 League.

“(After watching) Ardija finish in the top five and advance to the Emperor’s Cup semi-final last season, I think we are a strong team with a bright future,” Omae said.

“I’m grateful that they have valued me so highly and after hearing their vision of attractive attacking football I’m excited to take on a new challenge.”