China

Shanghai Shenhua boss hints at extending contract with Carlos Tevez

Shanghai Shenhua have not ruled out the possibility of extending the contract of Carlos Tevez, despite the Argentine star’s poor performances this season.

Tevez was flying home to Argentina since not being named to the squad for either match of Shenhua’s recent clash against Shanghai SIPG in the Chinese FA Cup final, in which they won on away goals.

However, Shenhua deputy general manager Zhou Jun hinted that the £34million-a-year deal with the former Manchester United star could be extended, as reported by Daily Mail.

“We decided to buy Tevez because the AFC Champions League qualifying phase was about to begin and at that time the new rules [to curb mega signings] did not come to light,” he told Shanghai TV.

“Tevez was playing quite well in both Boca Juniors and Juventus. And since there was an arms race going on [in the CSL], our club need a player who has a reputation and universal appeal.

“Of course, in the end, he is not living up to those expectations. But he keeps working very hard to be in contention to play.

“As for whether or not to extend his contract next year, it has to be a mutual choice. His future hinges on the outcome of further negotiations between the two parties.”