As we approach 2025, the focus in domestic football is on the transfer market. On one hand, young talents are busy looking for platforms that suit their development. Given the current situation, the possibility of young players securing high salaries is minimal; instead, they prioritize career planning and enhancing their personal abilities as the most stable way to increase their value. On the other hand, clubs' choices are also under scrutiny, with outsiders attempting to gauge financial strength through team acquisitions, especially those at the top of the standings who have guaranteed funds and are desirable targets for outstanding players.
As reigning champions, Shanghai Port is naturally the center of attention, particularly against the backdrop of Oscar's confirmed departure. Maintaining attacking power has become Muscat's primary task, and recruitment is the most direct method. When it was predicted that Shanghai Port would strengthen its midfield, informed media provided a new answer: 23-year-old forward Tao Qianglong will head to Shanghai to become a member of the new season. It's clear that by signing Tao Qianglong, Shanghai Port not only sees his current abilities but also values his long-term potential.
The outside world is no stranger to Tao Qianglong. This fast horse who landed in the Chinese Super League (CSL) at the age of 17 was once hailed as a prodigy. However, early fame also brought significant pressure to Tao Qianglong, and his later growth did not meet external expectations. Nonetheless, he remains one of the best among his peers in domestic football and has entered the national team, still considered a star of the future.
Back in 2017, Tao Qianglong left Beijing for Hebei, joining Hebei China Fortune. In just one year, he caught the attention of the first-team coaching staff and made his CSL debut in the 2019 season. In a match against Chongqing, Tao Qianglong scored a goal, achieving instant fame. However, after only one season with the Hebei first team, he was poached by Dalian.
In the following two seasons, Dalian's performance was poor, and they eventually left regrettably. Tao Qianglong transferred again, joining Wuhan Three Towns, where he won the league title that season. However, due to financial issues, Wuhan's state deteriorated until the end of 2024 when Tao Qianglong's contract with Wuhan expired. Choosing Shanghai Port also signifies a higher pursuit for his career, and with Wu Lei getting older, Tao Qianglong is expected to become his successor. Of course, joining the defending champions means increased competition, and securing playing time is the primary goal.