Chelsea have made an offer for China and Guangzhou Evergrande defender Zhang Linpeng according to Chinese media.
The report from Titan Sports claims that the Premier League champions sent a contract on Wednesday and hope to secure the player’s signature before the summer transfer window closes on 1st September.
While Chinese Super League champions Guangzhou were not contactable to verify the report, Zhang has been quoted by Titan expressing his delight at the opportunity of joining Chelsea.
I’m very happy and very excited to finally have this formal invitation. I’ve worked hard and waited these five-six years for my dream of playing overseas, and finally have recognition from the English Premier League.
The 26-year-old right-back has been given the nickname “Zhangmos” in China due to his similarity to Real Madrid’s defender Sergio Ramos. The picture below gives the nickname some credence…
However, it is likely that the defender will be sent on loan in Europe as Chelsea seek to sidestep tighter work permit requirements in Britain concerning non-EU nationals.
The player himself seems calm on the situation and holds every faith in Chelsea completing the deal.
Although I’m unable to play Premier League directly, I believe (Chelsea) will have the most professional arrangements regarding my permit. I have no worries at all about the negotiations.
An imposing figure at 6’1″, Zhang is also technically proficient and has been a key player in Guangzhou’s success in China and their run to the 2013 Asian Champions League title. Whether he will ever play for Chelsea remains to be seen.
