The 30-year-old shot-stopper was relegated as back-up goalkeeper to Yota Akimoto throughout Shonan's triumphant 2017 J2.League campaign where they finished as champions.

Velaphi, whose mother is Japanese, made five appearances for Shonan across two seasons in Japan, having left Melbourne City in 2016.

"I am thankful to all the supporters, players and staff of Shonan Bellmare," Velaphi told the club website.

"I have had a wonderful experience at this club and I had a good time in Shonan's two years.

"I hope the 2018 season will be the best season for Shonan Bellmare."

Perth-born Velaphi's next move remains unclear, but he has plenty of A-League experience after spells with City, Glory, Melbourne Victory and Queensland Roar.

Meanwhile elsewhere in Japan, Ange Postecoglou's new club Yokohama F. Marinos confirmed Socceroos defender Milos Degenek has inked a new deal with the J.League club.

Degenek made 27 appearances in all competitions last season and was named in the Young J.League Team of the Season.