Chinese Super League club Tianjin Teda are in talks to sign Newcastle striker Joselu, according to Calciomercato.
The Italian football outlet report that Tianjin are chasing a deal for Brazilian midfielder Ralf, but are also targeting a deal for Magpies forward Joselu.
Calciomercato claim that talks have already begun between the two parties over a move, with Tianjin keen on striking an agreement for the Spaniard.
OPINION
This would be a bit of a strange move, but not one which would be totally out of the question. Chinese Super League clubs usually target big names who can draw fans and increase interest in the competition, with Joselu certainly not coming under that bracket. However, now that Chinese football has moved on slightly from the crazy fees previously paid for superstars, it looks like they are beginning to chase deals for lesser-known footballers, who would provide them with a boost on the pitch but not cost as much money. Considering Joselu’s lack of impact on Tyneside since his arrival, it would not be a surprise to see the Magpies cash in on him if a big bid is submitted from China. It would also not be surprising to see the player himself be keen on a deal, with the lucrative wages on offer in China giving him a once-in-a-lifetime shot at earning really big bucks. The main issue from Newcastle’s point of view would be a replacement, with Rafa Benitez unlikely to let Joselu leave without signing another player in his place.
