Hot on the heels of Melbourne Victory announcing the departure of the gifted defender, it can be revealed that Deng has linked up with the five-time J.League champions, who are looking to rebound in 2020 after a disappointing domestic campaign in which they finished 14th.
However, they did reach the final of the AFC Champions League, succumbing 3-0 on aggregate to Saudi powerhouse Al Hilal.
Deng can grab extra intel on what lies ahead from erstwhile Victory teammate Andrew Nabbout, who recently returned to the club after a 16-month stint with Urawa.
The 22-year-old, according to J1 League resident Australian Mitch Langerak, will thrive in Japan.
“I know he will do really well,” said the Nagoya Grampus shot-stopper.
“He’s a top player and has proven himself over the years in the A-League and has shown he’s ready for the next step.
“To play in Japan you need to be technically at a very high level, so he has no problems there.
“And his physicality and athleticism will be a big advantage.
“Most teams in the J.League like to play out from the back and at a high tempo, so it will suit him very well.
“The Japanese clubs look after their players extremely well so settling in won’t be an issue and I can see him thriving in Japan.”
But Langerak warned that Deng will need to match his potential with a relentless work-rate and desire.
“Foreigners don’t get a free pass in Japan ... you have to earn your place and work hard to show that you deserve to play,” he added.
“It’s the whole package, which I think will suit him and I’m looking forward to playing against him, whichever club he goes to.”
