Borussia Mönchengladbach are stepping up their pursuit of Japanese forward Shuto Machino, with local outlet Bild reporting that a move is now imminent and medical tests are already being scheduled.

The 24-year-old striker, who scored 11 goals in the Bundesliga this season for Holstein Kiel, has emerged as a key target for the Foals as they prepare for a summer of squad upheaval. Departures are expected for several first-team regulars including Ko Itakura, Luca Netz, and Joe Scally, with the proceeds from those sales intended to fund incoming transfers.

According to Bild, Gladbach had initially planned to launch formal negotiations for Machino only after completing those outgoings. However, the club have now been forced to accelerate talks following the loss of other forward targets. Jordan Torunarigha, once on their radar, has sealed a move to Hamburger SV, while Leon Avdullahu has joined Hoffenheim from FC Basel. The risk of losing Machino as well prompted the Gladbach hierarchy to bring forward their timeline, and discussions over a medical examination are said to be already underway.

Machino joined Holstein Kiel from J-League side Shonan Bellmare in June 2023 and quickly adapted to German football. In his debut season, he scored five goals in 31 appearances in Bundesliga 2, playing a vital role in helping Kiel achieve promotion to the top flight for the first time in their history. Despite the club’s relegation after just one season in the Bundesliga, Machino proved himself at the highest level, scoring 11 goals across 32 league matches in a variety of attacking roles.

A senior Japan international and participant in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Machino’s work rate, off-the-ball movement, and finishing ability have made him a standout performer, even in a struggling side. With Gladbach looking to refresh their squad under a new vision, his arrival could mark the beginning of a new attacking era at Borussia-Park.

Should the deal be finalised, Machino will become the latest Japanese player to feature for the Foals, following in the footsteps of Ko Itakura, and will look to cement his place in the Bundesliga after an impressive breakthrough year.