Back to the Top News Newsfeed

Witsel opts for China over Juventus in 'very difficult decision'

Axel Witsel has chosen to reject Juventus and move to China in a decision he has described as "very difficult".

Italian champions Juve have been pursuing a January move for the Zenit midfielder, with his contract in Russia due to expire at the end of the season.

They were hopeful of completing a deal, but Witsel, 27, will instead play in the Chinese Super League and earn a reported salary of €18million per year.

Reports suggest Witsel will join newly promoted Tianjin Quanjian – managed by Fabio Cannavaro – rather than Shanghai SIPG, who have also strongly pursued him.