CHONGQING, April 21 -- When asked abut Barcelona legend Andres Iniesta's joining Chongqing Dangdai Lifan Football Club, Gong Daxing, chairman of the club's title sponsor SWM, told Xinhua that SWM is looking forward to seeing Iniesta playing a vital role in the club.
As reported by Spanish media, Iniesta's lawyer and agent have come to an agreement with one team of Chinese Super League last week. Iniesta will leave Barcelona for China on June 30.
However, it remains unclear which team the player may join. The 33-year-old is set to announce his decision after the Copa Del Rey final against Sevilla.
While Tianjin Quanjian and Hebei Fortune were also keen on his services, latest reports suggest Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have won the race for the midfielder.
The club president Jiang Lizhang, who is also the chairman of Granada, and his marketing agency Desports have already worked with Iniesta, and they seem to have managed to agree a deal for the veteran's transfer.
Jiang's influence in Spanish football is said to have grown bigger after he bought Granada and a local football agency. Last summer, Iniesta, invited by Jiang, paid a visit to Chongqing Dangdai Lifan Club.
However, the club declined to comment on Iniesta's transfer.
But Gong is enthusiastic and optimistic. He said on social media that he supports the move because Chinese football needs this and fans are expecting this.
Gong told Xinhua that SWM is positive on introducing Iniesta. "Iniesta's arrival would be beneficial for Chongqing, and a great bonus for our brand as well." Gong said.