Report: Japan to name Pekerman new coach

TOKYO (Reuters) -- Former Argentina coach Jose Pekerman is expected to be named as Japan's new manager later on Monday, local media reported.

The 60-year-old has agreed terms to take over from Takeshi Okada following a protracted search for a new coach, according to Japan's Nikkan Sports newspaper.

The Japan Football Association (JFA) would not confirm the report but Pekerman is expected to take charge of the side next month, the paper said.

The former Buenos Aires taxi driver will reportedly take over his new duties after next month's home friendlies against Paraguay and Guatemala.

Meanwhile, Kashima Antlers coach Oswaldo Oliveira threw his hat into the ring at the weekend with the JFA under pressure to name a high-profile successor to Okada.

"I would love to coach the national team," said the Brazilian. "Kashima don't want me to leave but it's in my contract that I can leave for any national team."

Dutch coaches Marco van Basten and Ronald Koeman have also been linked with the Japan job.

The new coach's first task will be to win the Asian Cup in Qatar in January.