The transfer of Wuhan Sanzhen's goalkeeper Liu Dianzuo has been quite a spectacle, as he chose to join Chengdu Rongcheng despite being offered a top-tier contract by his hometown team, Dalian Yingbo. This decision left many fans puzzled, as Dalian is where he hails from.
Liu Dianzuo's transfer has caused quite a stir, with Dalian Yingbo, Chengdu Rongcheng, Shenzhen Xinpengcheng, and Yunnan Yulong all vying for his services. Representatives from these four teams engaged in negotiations, leaving Liu Dianzuo with a difficult decision to make.
It is somewhat perplexing that Wuhan Sanzhen would let him go, considering he was their starting goalkeeper. It seems there must be some undisclosed reasons behind this move.
Dalian Yingbo was the first to approach Liu Dianzuo, offering him a top-tier contract, which is quite rare in the current climate of the Chinese Super League (CSL), where teams are trying to control their spending.
Shenzhen Xinpengcheng and Yunnan Yulong were not idle either, both sending invitations to Liu Dianzuo almost simultaneously, indicating that these teams are in need of goalkeepers.
Chengdu Rongcheng arrived late in the game but showed the most sincerity, not only possessing AFC Champions League qualification but also bringing in Han Pengfei, a national-level central defender.
Liu Dianzuo ultimately chose Chengdu Rongcheng, primarily because the team can compete in the AFC Champions League, which is crucial for a goalkeeper aiming to return to the national team.
Liu Dianzuo is already training in Chengdu and has even filmed a New Year's greeting video, appearing to have integrated quickly. He is now waiting for the official announcement on January 6 when the transfer window opens.
Chengdu Rongcheng was previously in a precarious situation, with Zhang Yan and Geng Xiaofeng leaving, leaving only Jian Tao to hold the fort, causing concern for the team.
Jian Tao is currently a national team goalkeeper, which makes Liu Dianzuo feel uneasy, as he was once a national player himself and now finds himself competing with Jian Tao for the starting position.
Chengdu Rongcheng's defense now looks quite strong with the addition of Han Pengfei, a national-level central defender, and Liu Dianzuo, which should make their defense more solid.
The team's decision to bring in Liu Dianzuo was a smart move, as finding a good goalkeeper in the CSL is challenging, especially for local goalkeepers who are in short supply.
The goalkeeper duo of Jian Tao and Liu Dianzuo is considered top-tier in the CSL, with both having national team experience and different technical characteristics.
Chengdu Rongcheng's AFC Champions League campaign is now secured, with the two goalkeepers able to rotate, ensuring they maintain their form without overexertion.
Han Pengfei's addition gives Liu Dianzuo more confidence, knowing there is a reliable central defender in front of him, allowing the goalkeeper to play with greater assurance.
The team's strength has significantly improved, generating excitement among fans for the new season, particularly their performance in the AFC Champions League.
It is indeed surprising that Liu Dianzuo turned down an invitation from his hometown team, given the favorable conditions offered by Dalian Yingbo.
However, upon closer consideration, it is understandable. As a professional player, one must prioritize their career, and Chengdu Rongcheng does offer better prospects for his development.
Liu Dianzuo is not getting any younger and requires a platform to compete at a high level to maintain his competitive edge.
The climate in Chengdu is much better than in Dalian, which is also a factor for a goalkeeper who trains regularly.
Wuhan Sanzhen had reasons to let him go, possibly due to financial pressures or a desire to change their goalkeeper style.
Liu Dianzuo's transfer appears to be motivated by a desire to return to the national team, as Jian Tao has taken his place, which must be uncomfortable for him.
Chengdu Rongcheng's overall strength is indeed superior to the other three teams, and the team atmosphere is positive, which was another significant factor in Liu Dianzuo's decision.
Although this transfer may have disappointed Dalian fans, it could be the best choice for Liu Dianzuo's career.