Guangzhou Evergrande sign South Korea international Kim Young-Gwon

Jul 2, 2012 9:35:00 AM

The 22-year-old will join the Chinese Super League holders on a four-year contract at the conclusion of the London Olympics after three seasons in the J-League

Guangzhou Evergrande have announced the signing of South Korean international Kim Young-Gwon from Omiya Ardija.

The 22-year-old will join the defending Chinese Super League (CSL) champions on a four-year contract for a transfer fee of €2 million, making him by far the highest-priced departure from the J-League so far this season.

The versatile defender first came to Japan in 2010, when he played for FC Tokyo before joining Omiya Ardija. Kim his international debut in 2010, and was recently selected to represent his country at the Olympic Games.

Kim's transfer was heavily supported by Evergrande manager Marcelo Lippi, who watched the 22-year-old in person according to the club's website. But he appears to be a consolation signing for Evergrande after the Asian Champions League quarter-finalists failed to pull Lee Jung-Soo away from Al Sadd.

Evergrande were recently given permission to sign up to seven foreign players after a controversial decision by China's Football Association to raise the foreigner limit for clubs participating in the ACL.

Kim is scheduled to join his new team after the Olympics.

Follow Goal.com Asia on and
for the latest in Asian footballing news, features, and analysis

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!