On July 27, Beijing time, the Chinese Super League is in the wind again. Paulo Niao, the core of Hebei's midfield, announced his transfer to Shanghai Seaport, becoming the second foreign aid to be transferred out of Hebei this summer. At the same time, Sohu Sports revealed that the Hebei team will also sign a foreign striker - Joao Silva from Zibo Cuju, aimed at strengthening the team's front line.
Shanghai Seaport confirmed the news, revealing that on July 26, the club had completed the signing of Paulinho. Although specific contract details were not disclosed, Paulinho will join the team in the form of a transfer, with Seaport paying Hebei the transfer fee. Paulinho's contract will expire at the end of 2022.
Earlier, some foreign media reports said that the harbour forward Arnautovic's transfer to Bologna has been basically finalized, he will sign a three-year contract with Bologna, with a transfer fee of up to 3 million euros. Italian journalist Kolo Schirra revealed that Arnaud will arrive in Italy on July 27, and both clubs have finally announced the transfer.
Seaport has not announced Paulinho's transfer fee, but it would not be a bad strategy for Seaport to exchange Arnau, who is determined to leave the team, for Paulinho, who is not required to play in the World Cup.
Paulinho's commitment to the Chinese Super League is well documented, and his strict adherence to the agreement signed by Hebei with several foreigners during the winter break last year, requiring them to return to their home countries before winter training, has given him an advantage in the transfer market.
It is reported that after Paulinho joins the team, the harbor may adjust the layout of the midfield and adopt a diamond-shaped stand. Paulinho will stand behind Oscar, Lopez and Lv Wenjun as an attacking front man. This means that head coach Leko may reintroduce Yang Shiyuan as a starter, while Chen Binbin may replace Amura Khan and start as a U23 player.
In fact, Shanghai Seaport had planned to bring in center Malcolm from Hebei and had contacted Hebei. However, Wuhan Sanzhen's intervention caused the deal to fall through. Although Malcolm was also interested in Seaport, Wuhan Sanzhen's higher bid and Hebei FC's business pressure made Malcolm join Wuhan Sanzhen, who is eager to reach the Super League.
After the departure of Paulinho and Malcolm, the Hebei team is left with only one foreign aid, Memishevich. In order to strengthen the front line, the Hebei team is interested in bringing in Zibo Cuju foreign aid striker Joao Silva, and the negotiations between the two sides are close to success. A foreign center as a tactical pivot, the Hebei team's tactical system is crucial. This season, Joao Silva has scored two goals.
