On July 27th in the Chinese Super League, a heavy transfer deal shook the soccer circle. Hebei midfield core Paulo Niao officially transferred to Shanghai seaport, becoming the second foreign aid transferred out of Hebei this summer. At the same time, Sohu Sports exclusively disclosed that the Hebei team is about to sign a Chinese A Zibo Cuju team striker Joao Silva, aiming to enhance the team's front-line strength.
Shanghai Seaport officially confirmed the joining of Paulo Niño and said that the signing with the player has been completed on July 26th. Although the exact transfer fee was not disclosed, Paulinho will join the team in the form of a transfer, and Seaport will pay Hebei the corresponding transfer fee. Paulinho's contract will expire at the end of 2022.
Meanwhile, the foreign media revealed that the deal for Harbour forward Arnautovic to move to Bologna has basically been finalized, and he will sign a three-year contract with Bologna, with a transfer fee of up to 3 million euros. Italian journalist Kolo Schirra reported that Arnautovic will arrive in Italy on July 27, and both clubs have officially announced the transfer.
Seaport has not announced Paulinho's transfer fee, but it would certainly be a good deal for Seaport to trade the determined Arnautovic for Paulinho, who is not required to play in the World Qualifiers.
Paulinho's commitment to the Chinese Super League is evident to all, as he signed an agreement with Hebei during last year's winter break that required all foreigners to return to China before winter training. Paulinho strictly adhered to the agreement and returned to China early, which put him in a favorable position in the transfer market.
It has been reported that with the addition of Paulinho, Seaport could change their midfield to a diamond formation, with Paulinho playing as an attacking front man, standing behind Oscar, Lopez and Lv Wenjun. This signals that head coach Leko may reintroduce Yang Shiyuan as a starter, with Chen Binbin replacing Amura Khan and starting as a U23 player.
It is worth mentioning that Shanghai Seaport had originally planned to bring in center forward Malcolm from Hebei FC, but it eventually fell through due to Wuhan Sanzhen's intervention. Although Malcolm also expressed strong interest in Seaport, Wuhan Sanzhen's higher offer and Hebei FC's business pressure made Malcolm finally join Wuhan Sanzhen, who are eager to reach the Super League.
After the departure of Paulo Niño and Malcolm, the Hebei team is left with only one foreigner, Memishevich. In order to strengthen the attacking power of the front line, the Hebei team is interested in the introduction of Zibo Cuju team's striker Joao Silva. It is reported that the negotiations between the two sides are close to success, Joao Silva as a tactical pivot, the Hebei team's tactical system is crucial. This season, Joao Silva has contributed two goals.
