TOKYO -- Once Norihiro Nakamura changed his mind, the New York Mets were forced to change directions.

The Mets said Friday night that Nakamura backed out of a deal to come to the major leagues and will remain in Japan instead.

"We had an agreement in principle with the player. He changed his mind after successfully completing a physical with us,'' Mets general manager Steve Phillips said in a statement. "We respect his decision to change his mind and wish him nothing but the best of luck in the future.''

The third baseman would have been the second Japanese slugger this week to relocate to New York to play in the majors. Hideki Matsui agreed to a $21 million, three-year deal with the Yankees on Thursday.

"It's tough to join the major leagues. Good luck to Matsui,'' Nakamura told Japanese TV network Fuji.

Instead, he turned down a $7 million, two-year offer from the Mets to stay with the Kintetsu Buffaloes. He will reportedly receive about $30 million over five years from Kintetsu.

"I have my own style and pride as a baseball player and I found the answer when I thought which club can make me express myself the best way,'' Nakamura said.

Nakamura hit .294 with 42 homers and 115 RBI last season in Japan's Pacific League.

The Mets had targeted Nakamura as their replacement at third base for Edgardo Alfonzo, who signed as a free agent with San Francisco.

Now they will turn their attention to free agents Bill Mueller and Jose Hernandez.

The Mets did get some good news Friday. They agreed in principle to a $26 million, four-year contract with outfielder Cliff Floyd.

"Despite Mr. Nakamura's decision, today was a productive day for the Mets' organization,'' Phillips said.

Nakamura was also courted by the Hanshin Tigers after he turned down an offer from the Yomiuri Giants last month.