Tianjin Quanjin owner, Shu Yuhui, has confirmed that the Chinese Super League club, were keen on bringing in Diego Costa, Karim Benzema, Edinson Cavani and Radamel Falcao, until China’s Football Association (CFA) implemented new rules on foreign players.
“Our club had a massive investment plan for the new season but it was tightened up by the new rules,” Shu told Tianjin Sports Channel.
“We need an out-and-out striker so we made a bid for Benzema. We also made an attempt for Falcao.
“As a matter of fact, the club had even prepared the contracts for Falcao and [Benfica striker] Raul Jimenez. We had already reached agreement with them on wages and bonus. The pair were expected to sign the contracts, but the new rules forced us to give up on them.”
Shu also revealed that he held meetings with agent Jorge Mendes, whose clients include Cristiano Ronaldo, Costa, etc.
“I made an appointment with Mendes and he came to my hometown to visit me. At that time, we were interested in signing Costa,” he added.
“PSG told us Cavani would only be allowed to leave in June, even though the player himself was willing to join us. The same can be said for Costa because Chelsea would only let him leave in June. However, the new season of CSL will almost reach the halfway stage in June, we can’t wait so long.”
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