Socceroo Nathan Burns has left Wellington Phoenix to join Japanese club FC Tokyo.

The A-League club confirmed on Friday that Burns is heading to Japan, subject to a medical.

“We expected this to happen given the season Nathan had with us,” Phoenix general manager David Dome said.

“It became even more likely when he won the Johnny Warren medal for the best player in the A-League.

“Ernie Merrick has been looking at alternatives for some time and will continue to do so.

“Nathan has been terrific for the Phoenix and we wish him well for the future.”

The 27-year-old scored 13 goals for the Phoenix in 24 appearances last season.