According to my Chinese sources Li Tie, the star defensive midfielder with Liaoning Fushun has said in the Chinese media that he is coming to Dundee after the World Cup is over.    

My original suggestion that Sun Jihai was also coming has left me with a huge fried egg on my face as that player made his debut for Manchester City last Saturday.  Over enthusiasm on the part of one Chinese contact led me to believe this player was also coming, due to his determination to play in Europe.  The Li Tie connection looks very close to becoming reality though Dundee might not announce this just yet.

24 year old Li, the Chinese Player of the Year, was sought after by Ajax of Amsterdam but their unwillingness to allow him time off for international commitments put paid to that deal, which was reckoned to be in the $2,000,000 range.  (that's dollars, not pounds).

Chen Pengui, general manager of Li's Chinese Club Liaoning Fushun, had this to say of Li Tie:- "Regardless of changes to national head coaches Li has been one of the few regular shows in international matches and rated as an irreplaceable defensive midfielder of the Chinese team."

With 5 years playing experience in Brazil, Li is highly rated and Dundee are keen to offer him signing terms for next season, once the World Cup is over.

Few Chinese are convinced Fan Zhiyi has gone for good, as he seems to be saying over there that he will return to Dundee for the new season.  If this is the case, we could be in for a Chinese double act that could enthral the Dens faithful next term.