Paulinho’s permanent China move confirmed

Barcelona have now officially confirmed that Guangzhou Evergrande have activated the buy out cause for Paulinho, completing the midfielder’s permanent deal back over to China. The 30 year old Brazilian international spent two years with Guangzhou before being purchased by Barcelona, and then last year, he went back on loan to the Chinese club – in yet another move that shocked the masses. Now, though, his permanent deal is complete, and it would appear as if he’s planning on staying there for the foreseeable future.

Paulinho first burst onto the scene during his time with Tottenham Hotspur, and while his first stint with Guangzhou was good, many fans were still somewhat surprised to learn that Spanish champions Barcelona had registered their interest in him.

Now, though, it would appear as if he’s setting the benchmark for players who want to transition over to the Chinese Super League in the next few years.