Brazilian midfielder Jadson, heading to China

It used to be only the European football luring South American and African players to their leagues.

Chinese football has also turned a big magnet for the players, who have talents the Chinese teams need badly.

According to Brazilian news portal, Lancenet, Chinese football has become “the hope and nightmare” of Brazilian Serie A champions Corinthians.

Midfielder Jadson this month became the latest Brazilian to move to China when Corinthians accepted a 5.4 million US-dollar offer from second-tier club Tianjin Songjiang.

In the coming days, the Sao Paulo outfit could lose midfielder Elias to Hebei China Fortune, who have reportedly made a 10 million US-dollar bid for the Brazil international.

Corinthians strikers Vagner Love and Alexandre Pato are also said to be on the radar of Chinese clubs.

“Events on the other side of the world have caused great fear and at the same time great hope for Corinthians in the next transfer window,” Lancenet said.

“With money to spend, Chinese clubs are turning their attention to the Brazilian champions. If on one hand this represents a threat to Corinthians’ squad, on the other hand it will mean more money for the club,” the portal added.

China has been an increasingly alluring destination for Brazilian players and coaches due to higher salaries and the improved standard of the Chinese Super League.

Guangzhou Evergrande, winners of the past five league titles, have six Brazilians in their squad. Among them are former national team players Robinho, Paulinho and Ricardo Goulart.

The club is also coached by Brazil’s 2002 World Cup winning manager Luiz Felipe Scolari.

*Originally reported by Xinhua