In the previous season of the Chinese Super League (CSL), Shanghai Shenhua once led the standings but ultimately fell short in the final stages. A home draw against Shenzhen New Pengcheng saw them relinquish their title ambitions, finishing one point behind Port and settling for second place. Determined to challenge for the CSL championship next season, Shenhua has been actively bolstering its squad in the transfer market in preparation for the new campaign. Official announcement! Shanghai Shenhua has secured four new signings, Jushi found a bargain for 920,000 euros, and Malailai's new club has emerged.
On January 8th, Beijing time, after official confirmation from Shenhua, the team has brought in Li Ke, Wang Shilong, and Wang Handragon. As these three players have all transferred on a free transfer, no transfer fees were incurred. Jushi has signed the three new players for Shenhua without a fee, saving a significant amount of money while acquiring players with promising abilities.
Li Ke, currently 31 years old, is a product of Arsenal's youth academy and plays as a midfielder, having been naturalized by the national team. Li Ke is versatile in both attack and defense. Last season, while playing for Guoan, he made 23 appearances with 18 starts in the CSL, scoring one goal and providing two assists. He is known for rushing to help his teammates when they are being bullied, which can enhance Shenhua's midfield depth and team cohesion.
Wang Shilong, 23 years old, is capable of playing as a center-back and full-back, making him a versatile defensive asset. Last season, Wang Shilong played for Guangzhou FC, making 28 appearances with 26 starts in the China League One, becoming a key player for the team. Wang Shilong could become a primary rotational defender for Shenhua. The 18-year-old mixed-race forward Wang Handragon was selected for various Slovenian youth teams before gaining Chinese citizenship and scored for Slovenia U16. Coming from the youth ranks of NK Olimpija Ljubljana in Slovenia, he is considered a promising talent.
Previously, Shenhua also announced the signing of 27-year-old Brazilian second-tier team Ceará forward Minero. It is reported that Minero's transfer fee was 920,000 euros. Last season, Minero made 30 appearances with 26 starts in the Brazilian second division, scoring 11 goals and providing 6 assists, ranking second in the league's top scorers list and helping his team gain promotion. Minero possesses strong individual combat capabilities, excelling in dribbling, shooting, and passing. He can play as a winger or center-forward, and his performance in the new season is highly anticipated.
Shenhua's failure to win the CSL title last season was largely due to missed opportunities by Malailai, and the club decided not to renew his contract at the end of the season. According to "Football News," newly promoted CSL team Dalian Yingbo is very close to reaching an agreement with Malailai, who is expected to join Dalian Yingbo. After Shenhua's squad adjustments, what do you think? Can Shenhua win the CSL title next season?