Lucchino, in Tokyo on Tuesday after meeting with representatives of Matsuzaka's Seibu Lions, said the Red Sox have taken the next step toward signing the Japanese star.

``We have sent a formal offer to Matsuzaka and his agent Scott Boras,'' Lucchino said. ``I believe it is fair and comprehensive, and offers a great deal of security and a substantial level of compensation.''

Boston bid US$51.1 million for the right to negotiate with Matsuzaka, who was the MVP of last spring's World Baseball Classic. The team has until the end of Dec. 14 to sign him.

In his meetings with Seibu officials, Lucchino said he discussed the possibility of the Red Sox and the Lions forming a long-term ``working relationship.''

Such a relationship could help facilitate a deal if contract talks stall. Media reports have said the sides are far apart in early negotiations.

If the Red Sox don't sign Matsuzaka, he returns to the Lions and could become a free agent following the 2007 season. To avoid that, the Lions could reduce the bid to help the sides reach a deal.

Lucchino brushed aside suggestions that the bid was made just to block the New York Yankees from signing Matsuzaka.

``I assure you that the notion that this is a primarily defensive maneuver is preposterous,'' Lucchino said, adding that 51.1 million is ``obviously a historical number but we are talking about a national living treasure and an exceptional baseball player.''

Lucchino sounded confident that a deal will be reached.

``We know it's been his dream to play in the major leagues and we are proud that he will live out his dream in Boston with the Boston Red Sox.''