After entering January, the transfer work of various CSL clubs has become a top priority, with many teams making targeted reinforcements. The traditional powerhouse Shanghai Shenhua has recently introduced several strong reinforcements such as Minero, Li Ke, Wang Hanlong, and Wang Shilong. Despite this, Shenhua's transfer work has not stopped.
Currently, Shenhua's transfer focus is mainly on the central defender, center forward, and attacking midfielder positions. In the central defender position, the team's current main partner is Zhu Chenjie and Jiang Shenglong. This national team duo performed exceptionally well last season, often stepping up in critical moments to help the team overcome difficulties. However, the strength of the substitutes on the bench is clearly insufficient, and Jin Shuncai's performance has been unsatisfactory.
According to a domestic sports media report, in order to enhance the competitiveness of the central defender position, Shenhua is considering introducing Shi Ke from Shandong Taishan. The 31-year-old Shi Ke has been selected for the national team multiple times and has played for Shandong Taishan for 3 seasons. However, his performance in recent years has been questioned. Changing teams may help Shi Ke regain his form. If he joins Shenhua, Shi Ke can become a substitute for Zhu Chenjie and Jiang Shenglong, bringing healthy competition within the team and effectively enhancing the overall defensive strength of the Shenhua team.
In the front line, Luis' performance last season was very eye-catching. The Brazilian striker quickly adapted to the rhythm of the CSL after joining Shenhua and repeatedly came to the rescue when the team was in trouble. However, Shenhua will be fighting on three fronts next season, and the team needs to further strengthen the depth of the front line.
According to some media reports, Lu Yongtao of Shandong Taishan has become a potential transfer target for Shenhua. The 1999-born forward performed outstandingly last season while playing for Nantong Zhiyun, becoming the team's top domestic scorer. Lu Yongtao stands at 1.85 meters tall, possesses excellent heading ability, and decent footwork. Moreover, Lu Yongtao has played in the AFC Champions League for Shandong Taishan and scored goals, gaining valuable experience that has earned him the favor of Shenhua. If he can successfully join, he is expected to play a leading role and represent Shenhua in the AFC Champions League.
Finally, in the attacking midfielder position, it is reported that Shenhua is considering introducing another young player from Shandong Taishan, Liu Guobao. The 23-year-old Liu Guobao was once the main player of the Chinese U19 national youth team and won the title of top scorer in the youth league. He is technically comprehensive, has a broad vision, and is strong at seizing opportunities in front of the goal. His addition will improve Shenhua's attacking power to a certain extent.
In addition to introducing new players, Shenhua Club has also adjusted the coaching staff. They have hired 54-year-old Russian forward Veretennikov as an assistant coach. Veretennikov once set a record of 143 goals in the Russian Super League and has rich coaching experience. His arrival can help the forwards of the Shenhua team effectively improve their offensive efficiency.
Currently, the Shenhua team is conducting winter training in Haikou. During this period, they are playing friendly matches against Dalian Yingbo, Qingdao West Coast, Beijing Guoan, and Tianjin Jinmen Tiger to further check the effect of the winter training. The current Shanghai Shenhua is strong in both soldiers and horses, and the club's goal for the new season is clear: to challenge for the CSL championship. Here, we also hope to see a stronger Shanghai Shenhua in the 2025 season, launching an assault on the double crown of the CSL and the FA Cup.