Shunsuke Nakamura wants to end his career in Japan but has vowed to remain at Celtic as long as he is wanted.
Yokohama Marinos, the midfielder's first club, have expressed a desire to take the 29-year-old back to his homeland.
But Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell has the option of a one-year extension to Nakamura's contract when it expires in the summer.
Nakamura said: 'I do not want to finish my career away from home. Marinos were the club where I started my professional career so it would be great if I could go back there one day.
'But I will only go back when Peter says he does not need me here any more.'
Nakamura made a goalscoring return to action on Saturday following three months out with a knee injury when he curled home from 25 yards to seal a 3-0 Scottish Cup win over Stirling.
And he admitted he was desperate to get back on the Parkhead pitch to ease the creative burden on Aiden McGeady.
'It was so exciting to return because I got so much applause from the fans,' he said.
'I don't think the team was struggling when I was not playing but Aiden has been really good and having great performances.
'So if I can do the same things on my side of the pitch that may make things easier for Aiden.'
Nakamura will be joined at Celtic by 22-year-old compatriot Koki Mizuno when he completes a move from JEF United over the coming weeks.
And the former Reggina player will do everything he can to help the youngster settle in.
Nakamura said: 'I had quite a hard time when I first went abroad to Italy so I would like to help as much as possible.
'It will take a few months for him to settle down so it might be difficult to go straight into the first team, although I am sure he can do it.'
