Heavy news came out of the Beijing time zone on June 30, when journalist Bai Guohua broke the news that the naturalization process of Caldecott is expected to take about six months. The player is expected to don the uniform of the Chinese national team in January 2022, and even have a chance to participate in the four matches at the end of the Asian Zone 12 of the World Qualification Tournament.
On social media, Bai further revealed, "The naturalization of Caldecott has finally been officially recognized by the CFA. According to the current situation, the naturalization process will take about half a year and he will represent China as early as January next year. Considering the schedule of the Top 12, Caldecott is expected to participate in the last four matches."
Media personality Zhou Yan also joined the discussion, noting, "With the draw for the National Football League's Top 12 matches looming tomorrow, the progress of two potential naturalized players is worth paying attention to. Dai Weijun's hukou relocation is progressing well, with only the final review remaining; Caldecott's naturalization is fully supported, and it is expected that by the end of July he will have met the conditions for naturalization, and the process will resume its normal advancement."
Caldecott, 32, joined Chongqing Contemporary Lifan in July 2016 from Sao Paulo for a €5 million transfer fee. This season, he joined Shenzhen FC and has made five appearances so far, scoring three goals and contributing two assists.
