CSKA Moscow star Keisuke Honda says he's close to joining Lazio.

Lazio have targeted the Japanese international this month and it would seem that a deal is on the horizon.

"I want to go to Lazio," the 25-year-old told Nikkan Sports. "The Italian championship intrigues me as a player.

"It may not be the most beautiful in the world, but it is the hardest. We are close to concluding the transfer."