The Chinese international Sun Jihai left Beijing February 26 to join English first division leaders Manchester City. Man City have signed a 2-million-pound (US$2.85 million) deal with the Chinese fullback, who will earn 650,000 pounds (US$926,000) a year.
Sun, rumored to have interested Italian giants AC Milan, set the transfer record for a Chinese player. Sun's former club, Dalian Shide, hosted a press conference in the capital to announce the deal. The club said the Sun's work permit has been granted.
Sun, aged 24, standing at 1.83 meters tall, joined then English Premiership club Crystal Palace in 1998 for 500,000 pounds (US$712,500).
But he was bought back by Chinese side Dalian Wanda when club president Wang Jianling saw the team was on the verge of relegation. Wang paid 800,000 pounds (US$1.14 million) to clinch the deal.
Sun became the target for Man City boss Kevin Keegan after his spectacular performance during China's World Cup Asian qualifiers. Thanks to Sun's efforts, China will make their maiden trip to the World Cup Korea/Japan.
Sun, who joined the Chinese national team in 1996, said he was worth every penny of the transfer fee.
"I am very glad I can go and play with Man City," said Sun. "My performance in England will tell the world Chinese players are very good."
(China Daily March 29, 2002)
