Nicolas Anelka set for dramatic transfer to Shanghai Shenhua in China

Chelsea

outcast striker Nicolas Anelka is apparently set to join Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua on a lucrative $10 million-a-year salary. The Frenchman recently submitted a transfer request at Chelsea after finding opportunities hard to come by this season. After seeing his request accepted by the club, he is now set to ply his trade in Asia next year.

The China Daily reported that a club spokesman hinted at the possibility of the deal taking place in the near future.

“This is not a rumor, you don’t need to wait too long. We will make an announcement as soon as the club signs a contract (with Anelka),” said the spokesman. “We do have plans to introduce big-name players next season,” he added.

If the deal does materialize, Anelka will overtake Dario Leonardo, who earns$7 million a year, as the most expensive player in the CSL. Former Fulham coach Jean Tigana is also expected to take charge of the club after he was spotted at the club’s training ground in late November.

With Anelka’s impending arrival as well, Shanghai Shenhua will be hoping to make a big impression on the Asian stage with an eye firmly placed on the prestigious Asian Champions League.